SECTION VII: SPECIALITY FIBRE - West · 2018-03-07 · III. The sub-group on speciality fibres for the National Fibre Policy has focused only on the 30% of these fibres, namely -

SECTION VII: SPECIALITY FIBRE

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

SUMMARY – SPECIALITY FIBRES.................................................................................................... 470

7.1. INDIAN TECHNICAL TEXTILES INDUSTRY: AN OVERVIEW ................................................... 477

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................ 477

GLOBAL SCENARIO ..................................................................................................................... 479

INDIAN SCENARIO ....................................................................................................................... 480

GROWTH PROJECTIONS ............................................................................................................ 481

RAW MATERIALS ......................................................................................................................... 481

7.2. SPECIALITY FIBRES ................................................................................................................... 485

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................ 485

IDENTIFICATION OF FOCUS SPECIALITY FIBRES ................................................................... 485

7.3. ISSUES AND CONCERNS ........................................................................................................... 509

LOW PENETRATION IN DOMESTIC MARKET AND LIMITED AWARENESS ........................... 509

INADEQUATE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ...................................................................... 509

TECHNOLOGY HURDLES ............................................................................................................ 510

NON AVAILABILITY OF HSN CODES .......................................................................................... 510

FISCAL ANOMALIES ..................................................................................................................... 511

REGULATORY ISSUES ................................................................................................................ 513

CONCERNS OVER GST ............................................................................................................... 513

7.4. RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................................................. 515

FISCAL MEASURES: FOR IDENTIFIED SPECIALITY FIBRES................................................... 515

FISCAL MEASURES: FOR TECHNICAL TEXTILES PRODUCTS ............................................... 517

NON – FISCAL MEASURES: FOR IDENTIFIED SPECIALITY FIBRES ...................................... 518

NON FISCAL MEASURES: FOR TECHNICAL TEXTILES PRODUCTS ...................................... 522

7.A. ANNEXURE .................................................................................................................................. 529

BRIEF SNAPSHOT OF VARIOUS SEGMENTS OF TECHNICAL TEXTILES ............................. 529

EXISTING REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR TECHNICAL TEXTILES ................................... 532

OVERVIEW OF FIBRES USED IN TECHNICAL TEXTILES ........................................................ 534

FOCUS SPECIALITY FIBRES ....................................................................................................... 539

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LIST OF MACHINERY ELIGIBLE FOR CAPITAL SUBSIDY UNDER TUFS ................................ 543

COMPOSITION OF THE SUB-GROUP ON SPECIALITY FIBRE (TECHNICAL TEXTILES) TO

FORMULATE NATIONAL FIBRE POLICY .................................................................................... 548

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SUMMARY – SPECIALITY FIBRES

INTRODUCTION

I. Fibres used in Technical Textiles can be segregated into three categories:

Regular/ Generic fibres,

Speciality variants of regular/ generic fibres, and

High tech/ high performance fibres

II. While the regular fibres like natural fibres and synthetic fibres (polyester, viscose,nylon,

polypropylene) account for 70% of the total fibre used in technical textiles, speciality fibres constitute

the remaining 30%. While speciality variants of regular fibre constitute majority of speciality fibres

(25% of the total 30%), the high performance fibres constitute a small proportion, i.e. 5%.

III. The sub-group on speciality fibres for the National Fibre Policy has focused only on the 30% of these

fibres, namely - speciality variants of regular fibre and hi-tech/ high performance fibres.

In India, indigenous production of speciality fibres is limited and majority of specialty fibres are imported to

cater to growing demand. Among various fibres, polypropylene and polyester account for 34.4% of

total fibre consumption in Technical Textiles.

IV. India has large plants and adequate capacities in regular synthetic fibres but players have shied from

the production of speciality fibres till date due to low demand and lack of requisite technology.

However, if India needs to increase its share of technical textiles in the next 5-10 years, due attention

is also required on the indigenous development of speciality fibres in order to attain near self-

sufficiency in the key raw materials required for production of technical textiles.

V. There are over numerous types of speciality fibres present globally, but not all are of strategic

importance from the policy attention point of view. The sub-group decided that there is a need to

identify limited number of speciality fibres that can be successfully developed in the country and be

useful to the industry and the economy in the future. Such fibres can be provided additional policy

benefits. List of the 23 speciality fibres as identified by the sub-group are:

Meta Aramids

Para Aramids

FR Modacrylic

Superabsorbant Fibre

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High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), High Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE)

Carbon Fibre

Polyphenylene sulfide Fibres (PPS)

Glass Fibre

Flame Retardant (FR) Viscose

Flame Retardant (FR) Polyester

High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Nylon (more than 7 gpd)

High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Polyester (more than 7 gpd)

High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Polypropylene (more than 7 gpd)

High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Viscose (more than 7 gpd)

Ceramic Fibre

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

PBI Fibres

PBO Fibres

Anti-microbial/Anti-fungal/Anti-bacterial Fibres

Phenolic Fibre

Conductive Fibre

Fibre for concrete re-enforcement

Alginate Fibre

ISSUES AND CONCERNS

VI. Low penetration: Technical textiles sector in India is at a nascent stage in terms of market

development. There is lack of awareness amongst the entrepreneurs as well as consumers about the

usage, benefits and high growth potential. At present, the major deterrent for expansion of the sector

is low demand.

VII. Lack of R&D: A major concern related to development of speciality fibres is lack of indigenous

research and development in the area of speciality fibres. Further, the technology required for

manufacturing of most of the speciality fibres is proprietary and very expensive. High cost and low

demand have also deterred Indian players to develop speciality fibres indigenously.

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VIII. Absence of HSN codes: The HSN code classification for a number of speciality fibres is not available

at the eight-digit level, while for some of the speciality fibres, such as meta-aramid and para-aramid

fibre, the HSN code is same. This creates difficulty in studying the trend in production, imports and

exports of the speciality fibres. Also, a number of speciality fibres are clubbed together under the

heading „Others‟, thus making it impossible to study the trends of the individual speciality fibres.

IX. Fiscal anomalies: There exist duty anomalies in the technical textiles industry wherein an excise

duty is levied on the raw material while the finished product has been exempt from the duty. Some of

the products exhibiting such anomaly are – Baby diapers, Incontinence diapers and Sanitary napkins.

Anomaly also exists with respect to customs duties. One of the customs duty related anomaly has

been observed in case of aramid yarn. At present aramid yarns can be imported without attracting any

import duty only if conditions specified in Sr. no. 16 under general exemption 9 of provisions for

Government imports including for defence and police are met. Customs duty on aramid yarn is waived

off only if it is used in the manufacture of bullet-proof jackets. However, independent manufacturer of

aramid fabric (which is used in manufacture of bullet-proof jackets) is not entitled to this exemption

and has to pay customs duty. Further, currently, the VAT rate in some states (like Tamil Nadu,

Karnataka) is different for the same products based on the base fibre used. There also exists a

discrepancy in fiscal treatment of nonwovens and other textile products. Also, DEPB for nonwoven

and converted products do not find a mention and needs to be notified.

X. Regulatory issues: One of the reasons for low penetration of technical textiles, especially in the

meditech segment is the existence of regulations that discourage use of modern technical textile

products. For instance, the Indian Drugs & Cosmetics Act 1940 and Indian Pharmacopoeia recognize

only woven medical products, due to which the consumption of nonwoven fabrics in medical area is

very low. Similarly, in other segments like geotech, absence of Indian standards has led to a low

consumption of geo-textiles over conventional methods. Further, the usage of fire retardant textiles in

public places is currently suggested in the National Building Code (NBC) but is not mandatory.

XI. Concerns over GST: Textile industry is concerned over the applicability of GST as the industry

involves a lot of inter-state transfers especially at the fabric stage. As GST would be applicable on

inter-state depot transfers, it could lead to blockage of funds/cash flow issues as no credit would be

available on the finished goods stock at such depots, unless they are sold. The same concern holds

for imported goods as well. Another area of concern is the treatment of stock transfers and job work

under GST. It is also not clear whether optional cenvat would be available for textile industries under

GST.

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RECOMMENDATIONS

XII. The indigenous development of speciality fibres is highly dependent upon the demand for these fibres

in the domestic market from the downstream industry, i.e. the technical textile manufacturers. Thus,

besides the recommendations for speciality fibres, the group has also proposed specific fiscal and

non-fiscal recommendations for technical textile products with a view to increase their consumption

and production in India. The fiscal and non-fiscal recommendations of the sub-group for speciality

fibres and technical textiles are as below.

XIII. Fiscal Measures for Identified Speciality Fibres

21. Excise duty on focus speciality fibres should be reduced to 4% (from the current level of 8%)

22. Import duty and CVD on additives used in Flame retardant speciality fibres and other

speciality fibres should be removed

23. Capital equipment used in the manufacture of identified speciality fibres should be exempted

from Custom duty

24. The government should consider introduction of a Special Incentive Package for enabling

Indian or foreign companies to set up manufacturing facilities for speciality fibres, thereby

strengthening the raw material base for Indian technical textile industry

XIV. Fiscal Measures for Technical Textiles

25. Excise duty levied on nonwovens should be uniform with that levied on other textiles

26. Excise duty on baby diapers, sanitary napkins and incontinence diapers should be

rationalised

27. The customs duty exemption may be allowed even to an independent manufacturer of aramid

fabric, which will be used for production of bullet-proof jackets for defence and police

personnel

28. VAT rates should be uniform for technical textiles products irrespective of the base fibre used

and irrespective of the source of origin of the product, whether from domestic market or from

imports

29. Technical Textiles should be exempted from GST for a period of at least two years.

30. To provide incentives to encourage development of technical textiles industry, 25% capital

subsidy should be provided in lieu of 10% capital subsidy and 5% interest rate subsidy to

small & medium entrepreneurs (upto capital investment of Rs 2 crores) engaged in

manufacture of technical textile products

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XV. Non-fiscal Measures for Identified Speciality Fibres

31. An R&D centre with a funding of at least Rs 50 crores is recommended at either NCL Pune,

one of the IITs or UICT Mumbai

32. It is recommended that incubation centres should be set-up for transfer of technology and

acceptance of innovative technologies by the industry

33. Well-equipped laboratories should be set-up in the four Centres of Excellence to extend

support of the industry in fields of testing and development, as per the requirements

34. Specific HS codes have been proposed for Speciality fibres whose HS codes could not be

identified. These include:

Super high/ High tenacity polyester fibre – 55022001

Super high/ High tenacity nylon fibre – 550319001

Super high/ High tenacity polypropylene - 55034020/30

FR polyester - 5503200015/25/45/65

FR Viscose - 5502000010/90

FR Modacrylic - 5503300010/90

Meta aramid - 5503190010/90,5402111010/90

Para aramid - 5503190010/90, 5402111010/90

HMPE/ HDPE/ UHMWPE - 55039070/80

Carbon fibre - 55039070/80

Superabsorbent fibre (acrylic) - 5503300000/10

PPS - 5503901000/5503909000

Phenolic fibre

PBO - 55090010/ 20/30/40

Antimicrobial/ antibacterial fibre (polyester, polypropylene, viscose) -

54022021/54060011/55032010

Fibres for concrete re-inforcement - 55034010, 55032030 for polypropylene and polyester

XVI. Non-fiscal Measures for Technical Textiles

35. Standard quality Technical Textiles are needed for maximum benefits and their installation

should be carried out as per standard guidelines and procedures. Specific segments of

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Technical Textiles where standardization is required on a priority basis include Geotech,

Buildtech, Protech, Meditech, and Agrotech

36. Some Ministries could issue guidelines which would increase the level of adoption and

awareness levels of Technical Textile products and aid in creation of a large market for these

products in India. Some specific initiatives and support required from other ministries include:

Mandatory usage of fire retardant fabrics in exhibition centres, cinema halls and other

public places

Mandatory usage of fire retardant apparel for fire-fighting personnel

Increased usage of geo-synthetics in infrastructure development projects

Increased usage of nonwoven disposable Meditech products in medical institutions and

hospitals

37. In order to boost the consumption of Technical Textile in India, it is recommended the

government increases awareness about the usage and benefits of these products. Following

measures can be undertaken by concerned Ministries to increase the level of awareness of

Technical Textiles:

Participation in medical fairs to promote the usage of Meditech products (especially

nonwoven single use products)

Organization of symposiums, road shows in different parts of India so as to familiarize

people with the application and benefits of products

Creation of framework for partnership in rural areas

Creation of specific programs for end use application to educate users about benefits of

the products

Incorporation of new generation medical textiles manufactured from MMFs and their

blends in Indian Pharmacopoeia and change in Schedule F-2 of Indian Drugs &

Cosmetics Act

Infrastructure projects could be modified to DBOT from BOT to emphasize more on initial

design so as to enhance usage of latest material and technology relating to geotextiles

Various Ministries could make amendments in certain existing Policies/Acts/Guidelines to

directly/indirectly boost the growth of Technical Textiles in India

38. Under the Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP), at least 10% of textile parks should be

dedicated technical textile parks

39. Technology Mission on Technical Textiles should be initiated at the earliest as it will boost

domestic production as well as consumption of Technical Textiles in the country

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40. In order to meet the stringent and critical performance related requirements of Technical

Textile products in the international markets, it is recommended that world class testing

facilities should be set-up in India. These facilities will assist in accurately evaluating the

products to meet international requirements

41. Technical textiles need to be included in the syllabus and curriculum of educational

institutions at B.Tech/B.E. and higher levels in all related branches of engineering and

technology, architecture and medicine to ensure availability of skilled manpower over the

long-term

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7.1. INDIAN TECHNICAL TEXTILES INDUSTRY: AN

OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION

7.1.1. The Expert Committee on Technical Textiles (ECTT) has defined Technical Textiles as “textile

materials and products used primarily for their technical performance and functional properties rather

than their aesthetic or decorative characteristics”. Technical Textiles (TT), unlike traditional textiles

which were used for clothing and furnishing, are used primarily for their specific physical and

functional properties. Some of the similarities between traditional textiles materials and contemporary

technical textiles materials include: manipulation of fibres, fabrics, finishing techniques and a

knowledge of correct combinations of different fibres in terms of its interactions and performance in

diverse environments.

7.1.2. Some of the terms used for Technical Textiles include “industrial textiles”, “functional textiles”,

“performance textiles”, “engineering textiles”, “invisible textiles” and “hi-tech textiles”. Technical

Textiles are used individually to satisfy a specific function (fire retardant fabric used in the uniforms of

firemen) or as a component of another product for enhancing its strength, performance or other

functional properties (tyre cord fabrics used in automobile tyres). They are also sometimes used as

accessories in processes to manufacture other products (paper maker felt in paper mills). Some

examples of Technical Textiles in our day-to-day include- floor mops, tea bags, coffee filters,

interlinings in clothes, carpets, wall coverings, sanitary napkins, baby diapers, mattresses, blankets

amongst others.

7.1.3. Technical textiles is not a single industry, it caters to a wide gamut of industries right from agriculture

to automobiles to construction activities etc. The range and variety of raw materials, processes and

applications it includes is enormous. Based on the characteristics of the product, functional

requirement and end-use, the variety of Technical Textiles products have been classified into 12

segments as follows:

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Exhibit 7.1.1: Segments of Technical Textiles

Segment Usage

Agrotech Agriculture, horticulture and forestry

Buildtech Building and construction

Clothtech Technical components of shoes and clothing

Geotech Geotextiles, civil engineering

Hometech Components of furniture, household textiles and floor coverings

Indutech Filtration, cleaning and other industrial usage

Meditech Hygiene and medical

Mobiltech Automobiles, shipping, railways and aerospace

Oekotech Environmental protection

Packtech Packaging

Protech Personal and property protection

Sporttech Sport and leisure

Source: ECTT

7.1.4. There are over 150 products classified under Technical Textiles and its coverage in terms of

application areas is expanding globally with each passing day on account of technological

advancement in raw materials and processes. Though the Indian Technical Textiles industry

consumes products under all twelve segments, the majority technical textiles products that are

manufactured in India include– Clothtech, Packtech, Sporttech and Hometech.

7.1.5. Unlike India‟s textiles and garments industry which is export intensive, the Technical Textiles industry

is import intensive. Many products are imported in order to cater to the domestic demand. The only

products which are exported in large quantities from India (like fishnets, surgical dressings, flexible

intermediate bulk containers, among others) do not require high levels of R&D and technology. Also,

the size of manufacturing units varies to a great extent. For instance, despite presence of big players,

production of certain products (like shoe laces, woven sacks, stuffed toys, carpet backing, among

others) are concentrated in the small scale segment.

7.1.6. Technical textiles in developed countries have matured and hence its growth in these regions is

expected to be moderate. Developing economies like China and India are expected to register a

robust growth in Technical Textiles on account of heavy infrastructure activities in these regions. Also,

as the consumption of disposable Technical Textiles products (like wipes, sanitary napkins, adult/baby

diapers) is directly related to disposable income, an increase in disposable income of a country is

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expected to drive the demand of these products. India has huge advantage in manufacturing of

textiles and garment due to its inherent low cost advantage. Therefore, in niche segments of technical

textiles India can gain cost advantage through tie-ups with research institutes for the development of

new technologies.

GLOBAL SCENARIO

7.1.7. The global market size of Technical Textiles was estimated to be US$ 106.8 billion in 2005 (20 billion

kg). Amongst all the segments of Technical Textiles, Mobiltech, Indutech and Sporttech are the more

prominent ones which collectively accounted for 56% of global market size in 2005.

7.1.8. Globally, production of segments in the textiles industry has reached a saturation point and its

manufacture has become extremely competitive due to shift in production to low cost nations. Hence,

these nations have shifted their focus on manufacture of value added products namely Technical

Textiles which offer good margins and are technology intensive.

Exhibit 7.1.2: Global market size

Segment

Year CAGR (%)

2005 2010

Volume (bn kgs)

Value (US$ mn)

Volume (mn kgs)

Value (US$ mn)

Volume Value

Mobiltech 2.8 26,861 3 29,282 3 1

Indutech 2.6 16,687 3 21,528 4 5

Sporttech 1.2 16,052 1 19,062 3 3

Buildtech 2.0 7,296 3 9,325 5 5

Hometech 2.5 7,622 3 8,778 3 3

Clothtech 1.4 7,014 2 8,306 3 3

Meditech 1.9 6,670 2 8,238 4 4

Agrotech 1.6 6,568 2 8,079 4 4

Protech 0.3 5,873 0 6,857 4 3

Packtech 3.0 5,329 4 6,630 4 4

Geotech 0.3 927 0.3 1,203 5 5

Total 19.7 106,899 24 127,288 4 3

Source: DRA

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INDIAN SCENARIO

7.1.9. India is the second largest textiles economy in the world after China, however, its contribution to the

global technical textiles market is insignificant. The current market size of Technical Textiles in India

stands at Rs 417.6 billion and it has grown at a CAGR of 9.6% from Rs 219.9 billion in FY02.

Packtech is the largest segment accounting for a 35% share in overall market size of Technical

Textiles in India in FY08 followed by Clothtech (16.5%), Hometech (12%) and Indutech (7.7%).

Exhibit 7.1.3: Segmental market size (Rs mn)

Segment FY02 FY08 CAGR (%)

Agrotech 2,610 5,530 11.3

Buildtech 10,511 21,570 10.8

Clothtech 53,951 69,080 3.6

Geotech 1,100 2,720 13.8

Hometech 7,579 50,250 31.0

Indutech 26,220 32,060 2.9

Meditech 11,933 16,690 4.9

Mobiltech 12,764 31,830 13.9

Oekotech - 680 -

Packtech 35,877 146,300 22.2

Protech 3,475 13,020 20.8

Sporttech 53,898 28,510 -8.7

Total 219,917 417,560 9.6

Source: ECTT, Baseline Survey on Technical Textiles

7.1.10. A brief snapshot of various segments of technical textiles is provided in annexure 7.A.1. An review of

the existing regulatory framework for technical textiles in India is provided in the annexure 7.A.2.

7.1.11. The technical textiles segment in India has a potential to attract investment and create additional

employment opportunities in coming years. Investments of Rs 5,000 crores are expected by 2012

and employment is expected to increase to 12 lakhs by 2012.

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GROWTH PROJECTIONS

7.1.12. According to the baseline survey of technical textiles commissioned by the office of textiles

commissioner, the technical textiles industry is expected to register a growth of 11% per annum till

2012-13.

7.1.13. Due to non-availability of time-series data on production/ consumption of various technical textile

products, it has been difficult to estimate growth projections for various segments of the sector.

7.1.14. However, the members of the sub-group on Speciality fibres are of the opinion that the technical

textile industry is likely to grow at 6-8% per annum till 2020 without any policy interventions.

However, if government interventions take place in the form of regulatory push the growth of technical

textiles industry can be estimated at 12-15% per annum till 2020.

RAW MATERIALS

7.1.15. Technical Textiles products are manufactured from various fibres depending upon the end usage of

the product. All types of fibres – natural (cotton, silk, jute, coir and wool), man-made fibres (viscose,

polyester, nylon, acrylic, etc) as well as high performance specialty fibres find usage in Technical

Textiles. Man-made fibres (MMFS) find more usage in manufacture of Technical Textiles due to their

inherent advantage of having higher strength and versatility as compared to natural fibres.

Global scenario

7.1.16. World consumption of fibres in Technical Textiles in 2005 was 22% of the total fibres consumed. Of

the total fibres consumed (19.68 mn tonnes), around 80% comprised of MMFs and remaining

comprised of natural fibres. Industry experts believe the share of MMFs in total fibre consumption will

further increase to 81.3% by 2010. Among various fibres, polyoliefin and polyester collectively

accounted for 50% of total fibre consumed in Technical Textiles in 2005 followed by glass (15%) and

jute (14%). Specialized fibres like aramid and carbon account for 1% of fibres consumed in Technical

Textiles. Natural fibres find application in comparatively less demanding applications like sacks, twine

and carpet backing.

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Exhibit 7.1.4: Fibre composition in Technical Textiles

Source: ECTT

Indian scenario

7.1.17. In India, indigenous production of fibres is limited and majority of specialty fibres are imported to cater

to growing demand. Among various fibres, polypropylene and polyester account for 34.4% of total

fibre consumption in Technical Textiles. While jute has mostly been replaced by HDPE or

Polypropylene all over the world, India still uses jute in manufacturing of packaging products due to

mandatory packaging in jute materials Act. Also, other traditional fibres like hemp, sisal and cotton are

rapidly getting substituted by synthetic fibres like polyester, polyethylene, nylon, etc due to better

performance and functional properties of these fibres.

Exhibit 7.1.5: Fibre composition in Technical Textiles

Source: ECTT

7.1.18. Type of fibres used in the manufacture of Technical Textiles products depend upon the desired

properties of the end products. Majority of products of Technical Textiles are manufactured from

MMFs (polyester, nylon and polypropylene) and polymers (HDPE, LDPE, and Polypropylene (PP).

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Some of the speciality fibres used in the manufacture of Technical Textiles include Aramid, UHMPE,

Carbon fibre, Nomex, Trevera and glass fibres. An overview of various fibres used in manufacturing of

technical textiles is provided in the annexure 7.A.3.

Exhibit 7.1.6: Snapshot: Fibres used in Technical Textiles

Segment Cotton Jute Viscose Polyester Nylon PP HDPE LDPE/ LLDPE

Aramid Glass Carbon

Agrotech √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Meditech √ √ √

Mobiltech √ √ √ √ √ √

Packtech √ √ √ √ √ √

Sportech √ √ √ √ √ √

Buildtech √ √ √ √ √

Clothtech √ √ √ √ √

Hometech √ √ √ √

Protech √ √ √ √

Geotech √ √ √ √ √

Oekotech √ √ √ √ √ √

Indutech √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Source: Baseline Survey on Technical Textiles

7.1.19. Fibres used in Technical Textiles can be segregated into three categories:

Regular/ Generic fibres,

Speciality variants of regular/ generic fibres

High tech/ high performance fibres

7.1.20. While the regular fibres like natural fibres and synthetic fibres (polyester, viscose,nylon,

polypropylene) account for 70% of the total fibre used in technical textiles, speciality fibres constitute

the remaining 30%. While speciality variants of regular fibre constitute majority of speciality fibres

(25% of the total 30%), the high performance fibres constitute a small proportion, i.e. 5%.

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Exhibit 7.1.7: Types of fibres used in Technical Textiles

Source: Industry

7.1.21. Some of the high tech speciality fibres that are popular include Kevlar, Twaron, Nomex, carbon fibre

and high molecular weight polyethylene (Dyneema, Spectra). Lately, the usage of high performance

fibres has been growing due to reduction in price of aramids (on account of competition and

economies of scale).

7.1.22. The sub-group on speciality fibres for the National Fibre Policy has focused only on the 30% of these

fibres, namely - speciality variants of regular fibre and hi-tech/ high performance fibres. Details of

speciality fibres identified by the group are provided in the following chapter of this report.

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7.2. SPECIALITY FIBRES

INTRODUCTION

7.2.1. Improved technology in fibre spinning like melt spinning, wet spinning, etc has made the production of

fibres with functional characteristics suitable for Technical Textiles. Also, the manufacturing of

speciality fibres has become commercially viable on account of advancement of technology. However,

the production of speciality variants of regular fibres and high performance fibres (that constitute 30%

of the total fibres used in technical textiles) is largely based in developed countries like the US, Japan,

Canada and some EU countries and has started developing in countries like China and Korea.

However, India‟s synthetic fibre portfolio at present largely constitutes only the regular fibres and while

speciality fibres are being commercially developed in the country, their volumes are very small and

almost negligible for high-performance fibres.

7.2.2. Most of the speciality fibres used in technical textiles in India are at present being imported from

countries like the US, EU and China. India has large plants and adequate capacities in regular

synthetic fibres but players have shied from the production of speciality fibres till date due to low

demand and lack of requisite technology. However, if India needs to increase its share of technical

textiles in the next 5-10 years, due attention is also required on the indigenous development of

speciality fibres in order to attain near self-sufficiency in the key raw materials required for production

of technical textiles.

7.2.3. There are over numerous types of speciality fibres present globally, but not all are of strategic

importance from the policy attention point of view. The sub-group decided that there is a need to

identify limited number of speciality fibres that can be successfully developed in the country and be

useful to the industry and the economy in the future. Such fibres can be provided additional policy

benefits.

IDENTIFICATION OF FOCUS SPECIALITY FIBRES

7.2.4. The baseline survey of Technical Textiles lists around 32 types of speciality fibres having application

across different user industries like automotive, defence, industrial applications, construction, etc. Of

these, the sub-group selected certain fibres and additionally identified 6 more fibres as the focus

speciality fibres based on their application, importance to the economy in the near future, potential for

large volumes in the future, etc. List of the 23 speciality fibres as identified by the sub-group are

presented in the table below:

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Exhibit 7.2.1:

S. no. Identified speciality fibres

1 Meta Aramids

2 Para Aramids

3 FR Modacrylic

4 Superabsorbant Fibre

5 High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), High Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE)

6 Carbon Fibre

7 Polyphenylene sulfide Fibres (PPS)

8 Glass Fibre

9 Flame Retardant (FR) Viscose

10 Flame Retardant (FR) Polyester

11 High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Nylon (more than 7 gpd)

12 High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Polyester (more than 7 gpd)

13 High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Polypropylene (more than 7 gpd)

14 High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Viscose (more than 7 gpd)

15 Ceramic Fibre

16 Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

17 PBI Fibres

18 PBO Fibres

19 Anti-microbial/Anti-fungal/Anti-bacterial Fibres

20 Phenolic Fibre

21 Conductive Fibre

22 Fibre for concrete re-enforcement

23 Alginate Fibre

Source: Sub-group on speciality fibres

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7.2.5. These speciality fibres have been analysed individually in the following section so as to understand

their properties, applications, manufacturing process and demand. The table in the annexure 7.A.4.

provides a snapshot of the identified speciality fibres.

Meta-aramid Fibres

Properties

7.2.6. Meta-aramid fibre is a high tenacity heat resistant synthetic fibre. DuPont was the first company to

introduce this fibre during late 1960s under the brand name “Nomex”. Hence, because of its inherent

high strength and high impact absorbing capacity, these fibres found their applications in

manufacturing speciality products under Indutech and Protech segments.

7.2.7. Meta-Aramids are best known for their combination of heat resistance and strength. In addition, these

do not ignite, melt or drip; a major reason for their success in FR apparel market. Some of the typical

applications of meta-aramids include: automotives, hot gas filtration, safety and protective clothing,

reinforcement, thermal insulation, heat shields, high temperature filtration; etc

Applications

7.2.8. The broad applications for Meta-aramid fibres are given below:

Defence application: Manufacturing of bullet proof jackets, body armor and helmets.

Industrial application: Manufacturing of flame resistance clothing, ropes, cables, hand gloves, etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.9. DuPont (USA) is the leading producer of this fibre in the world. Some of the other key manufacturers

of this fibre are Teijin Twaron (Japan), SRO Group (China), Yantai Spandex (China), Kermel (France),

etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.10. The domestic demand of meta-aramid fibres are predominantly met through imports from European

Union (EU), China and USA, as there are no indigenous manufacturers of this fibre in India. (Refer

Table given below). These fibres imported for defence applications are exempted from custom duty

and counter veiling duties (CVD).

488

Exhibit 7.2.2: Aramid - Imports for FY09

Regions Rs (mn) Regions Rs (mn)

Taiwan 110.0 China 29.8

European Union (EU) 70.1 Others 27.4

USA 33.8 Total 271.0

Source: CMIE

Note: 1) Imports for aramid fibres are taken from HS codes 55031900, 54021110.

2)Import under this HS Code is given only for FY09, hence CAGR cannot be calculated

Para-aramid Fibre

Properties

7.2.11. Dupont “Kevlar” brand was the first para-aramid fibre to be introduced during 1970s. This fibre was

known for its high strength to weight ratio, high modulus, and excellent chemical and thermal stability.

Hence due to its high strength and flame resistance ability, these fibres are mainly used in

manufacturing protective clothing used in fire fighting and defence.

Application

7.2.12. The applications of para-aramid Fibre are quite similar to that of meta aramid fibre. Some of the key

applications of para-aramid fibres are as follows:

Defence application: Manufacturing of bullet proof jackets, body armor and helmets.

Industrial application: Manufacturing of flame resistance clothing, ropes, cables, hand gloves, etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.13. Du Pont is the leading manufacturer of para-aramid fibres in the world. The company markets its

product under the brand name “Kevlar”. Some of the other key global manufacturers are, Teijin

Twaron (Japan), Yantai Spandex (China), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.14. The domestic demand of para-aramid fibres are predominantly met through imports from European

Union, China and USA, as there is no indigenous manufacturer of this fibre in India. Para-aramid

fibres imported for defence pupose is exempted from both customs duty and CVD. Since the imports

of both meta aramid and para aramid are clubbed under HS codes 55031900 and 54021110. The

imports of para-aramid and meta-aramid fibres can not be estimated separately. (Refer to above

table).

489

Fire retardant modaacrylic Fibres

Properties

7.2.15. Moda acrylic Fibres is one of the most resilient fibres, these fibres are easy to dye in to bright shades,

abrasion resistant, flame resistant, resistant to acids and alkalies, etc. The first commercial production

of modacrylic fiber began in 1949 in Union Carbide Corporation in the United States. This fibres do

not combust and hence difficult to ignite. Due to these properties it is widely used in manufacturing of

flame retardant clothing.

Application

7.2.16. Some of the important applications were Modaacrylic Fibres are given below:

Apparels: Children wear, wigs, simulated fur, trims and linings, and deep pile coats, etc.

House Furnishing: Manufacturing of fire resistance blankets, curtains, carpets, sofa covers etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.17. Solutia Inc (USA), Kaneka Corporation (Japan), Yalova Eliat (Turkey), Montefibre (Italy), Mosanto

(USA), etc. are some of the key global suppliers of this fibre.

Indian Scenario

7.2.18. Moda-acrylic fibres are not manufactured in India, it is majorly imported from Japan, EU, Thailand,

China, USA, etc. (Refer to below Table)

Exhibit 7.2.3: Moda acrylic - Imports for FY09

Region Rs (mn) CAGR (FY07-FY09)

Thailand 216.4 -2.6%

Japan 201.4 -12.1%

European Union 148.8 -9.0%

China 98.7 268.8%

USA 28.9 2.9%

Taiwan 20.3 9.5%

Singapore 20.3 9.5%

Others 7.1 -61.8%

Total 741.9 -2.9%

Source: CMIE Note: Imports for both modaacrylic and superabsorbant fibres are taken under same HS code: 55033000

490

Super-absorbant fibre (acrylic)

Properties

7.2.19. Super absorbant fiber is a type of acrylic fibre which is manufactured by coating super absorbent

particles to the fibre. Super-absorbent fiber has the property of absorbing moisture several thousand

times more than its original weight and subsequently undergoes significant expansion, and eventually

forming into a gel form.

Applications

7.2.20. Hygiene products: These fibres are primarily used as an absorbent for water and aqueous solutions in

diapers, adult incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, and other similar applications.

Global Scenario

7.2.21. Some of the key global manufacturers of super absorbant fibres are Technical Absorbant Ltd. (UK),

Technical Absorbant Ltd. (UK), Camelot Technologies (Canada), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.22. Super absorbant fibres are not manufactured in India, they are mainly imported from countries like

Japan, USA, China and Thailand. The imports of this fibre are clubbed under HS code 55033000

which also include modaacrylic staple fibres. (Refer to the above table).

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)/ High Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE)/

UHMWPE

HDPE: Properties

7.2.23. HDPE is a polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum. It requires around 1.75 kilograms of

petroleum (in terms of both energy and raw materials) to manufacture one kilogram of HDPE. HDPE

has a strong intermolecular force which gives it high tensile strength. This fibre was first produced in

USA during late 1950s.

Application

7.2.24. Typical applications of HDPE are marine ropes and cordages, sailcloth, netting, sacks, carpet

backing, furniture lining, and medical applications, etc. UHMWPE is used for protective clothing

(ballistic protection)

House applications: HDPE is used in sanitary landfills, wherein large sheets of HDPE are extrusion or

welded to form a homogeneous chemical-resistant barrier.

491

House furnishing and construction: HDPE is also used in wood plastic composites. Recently, it is

increasingly applied in manufacturing of tubes instead steel or PVC, because of its greater durability

and strength.

Global Scenario

7.2.25. Globally major producer of these fibres are Mitsui Petrochemical Co. (Japan), Honeywell (USA),

Taniyama Chemical Industry (Japan), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.26. In India the consumption of low density polyethylene (LDPE)/ HDPE consumption is estimated to be

around 1.7 million tonne presently. Reliance Industries, GAIL and Haldia Petrochemicals Limited

(HPL) are the major producer of HDPE in India. India is a net exporter of this product.

HMPE/ UHMWPE: Properties

7.2.27. HMPE is a subset of the thermoplastic polyethylene. Due to its extremely long molecular chain this

fibre is extremely strong and it has high impact absorbing strength compared to any other

thermoplastic. HMPE is highly resistant to corrosive chemicals and has extremely low moisture

absorption. HMPE also has friction resistance quality and is self-lubricating. This fabric was first

developed by Royal DSM (Netherlands) under the trademark Dyeenma in 1979.

Application

7.2.28. Medical application: HMPE is widely used in medical application for manufacturing biometric implants

for hip, knee and spine.

Construction: Due to its high impact resisting strength, it is used in manufacturing of windows panels

and doors.

Defence application: This fibre is also used in manufacturing of bullet proof vests, ballistic body armor,

etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.29. Some of leading global manufacturers of this fibre are Taniyama Chemical Industry (Japan), Royal

DSM (Netherlands), Honeywell (USA), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.30. HMPE Fibres are not manufactured in India, it is majorly imported from countries like Japan, EU,

China, South Korea and USA. The HS code of HDPE and HMPE fibres are combined together under

HS Code 55039090. (Refer to table given below).

492

Exhibit 7.2.4: HDPE/ HMPE - Imports for FY09


China 116.8 30.9%

USA 67.0 83.6%

Japan 25.2 126.2%

South Korea 23.1 714.4%


Taiwan 3.5 12.6%

Thailand 3.5 94.9%

Others 13.2 7.8%

Total 270.3 43.7%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports for both HDPE, HMPE, carbon fibres and PPS are taken under same HS code: 55039090

Carbon Fibre

Properties

7.2.31. Carbon fibres are extremely thin fibres composed from carbon atoms. The carbon atoms are bonded

together in microscopic crystals that are aligned parallel to the long axis of the fiber. Carbon fibers can

be combined with a plastic resin or molded to form composite materials such as carbon fiber

reinforced plastic to provide a high strength-to-weight ratio material. The density of carbon fiber is also

considerably lower than the density of steel, making it ideal for applications requiring low weight and

higher strength.

Application

7.2.32. Automobile Industry: Due to its inherent strength and light weight, carbon fibres are majorly used in

racing cars. Automobile industry recently has become the major growth driver for this fibre segment

globally.

Aviation Industry: Aero planes external bodies,

Power Industry: Manufacturing of wind energy equipments.

493

Global Scenario

7.2.33. The global demand for Carbon fibre was expected to be around 35,000 tonnes in 2005 and it is

expected to have increased to around 48,000 in 2007. Toray Industries (Japan), Toho Tenax (Japan),

Mitsubishi Rayon (Japan), Zoltek (USA), Hexcelcorp (USA), SGL Carbon AG (Germany) are some of

the leading producers of carbon fibres in the world.

Indian Scenario

7.2.34. The first manufacturing facility for carbon fibre in India was set up by The National Aerospace

Laboratories (NAL) in Bangalore with an investment of around Rs 30 crore. The plant has a capacity

of 20 MT/annum. Kemrock Industries and Exports Ltd (Vadodara), a manufacturer of fibre-reinforced

plastic composites, is planning to set up carbon fibre plant in near future. Reliance Industries Ltd is

also expected to set up carbon fibre manufacturing plant by the end of this fiscal.

Polyphenylene sulfide Fibres (PPS)

Properties

7.2.35. The PPS polymer is formed by reaction of sodium sulfide with p-dichlorobenzene. Polyphenylene

sulfide is an engineering plastic and a high-performance thermoplastic. PPS can be molded, extruded,

or machined to high tolerances. In its pure solid form and highly resistance to heat, acids and alkaline,

It absorbs only small amounts of solvents and resists dyeing.

Applications

7.2.36. Electric applications: It is used in manufacturing electrical products due to its strong heat and

chemical resistance properties.

Other: It is used in heat resistance bag filter, dryer canvas, liquid filtration cloth, etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.37. Some of the key global manufacturers of PPS Fibres are, Armoco Fabrics & Fibres Co (USA), Toyobo

(Japan), Toray Industries (Japan), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.38. No manufacturer was observed to be involved in manufacturing of PPS Fibre in India. Hence major

portion of this fibre is imported. The imports of PPS are clubbed with imports of HDPE/HMPE and

carbon fibres under HS code 55039090.

494

Glass Fibre

Properties

7.2.39. Glass fibres are extremely thin fibres of glass used as a reinforcing agent for many polymer products.

It is formed when thin strands of silica-based or other formulation glass is extruded into many fibers

with small diameters suitable for textile processing. The first commercial production of fiberglass was

done in 1936. Glass fibre is useful because of its good properties of thermal insulator.

Application

7.2.40. Construction: Glass fibre is majorly used in thermal insulation, electrical insulation, reinforcement of

various materials, tent poles, sound absorption, heat- and corrosion-resistant fabrics, high-strength

fabrics, pole vault poles, arrows, bows and crossbows, translucent roofing panels,

Automobile industry: It is used in manufacturing of automobile bodies

Sports equipments: Glass Fibres are also used in manufacturing of hockey sticks, surfboards, boat

hulls, etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.41. Owens-Corning Fibreglas, Nicofiber (USA), Fibreglass (Canada), Asahi Fibre Glass Co (Japan),

Chemitex-Anilana (Poland), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.42. The major domestic manufacturers of glass fibre are Owens Corning (India) Ltd (subsidiary of Owen-

Corning Fibreglas), Goa Glass Fibre Ltd, UP Twiga Fibres, etc. The total installed capacity is

estimated to be around 82,000 MT/per annum. Owens Corning and Goa Glass are the major

manufacturers with estimated share of around 70 – 75% in the total installed capacity. Imports also

constitutes major portion of the domestic demand. (Refer to the table below).

Exhibit 7.2.5: Glass fibre - Imports for FY09


China 219.7 33.8%

USA 140.5 26.3%



Japan 11.2 75.3%

495

Exhibit 7.2.5: Glass fibre - Imports for FY09


Others 33.0 -49.7%

Total 604.0 -3.2%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports of Glass Fibres are taken under HS Code 70199010

Fire Retardant (FR) Viscose

Properties

7.2.43. A viscose is a cellulose-based fibre produced primarily from wood. Viscose fibres are completely bio-

degradable and are compared to naturally grown cellulose fibres which offer many advantages

including absolute pureness, evenness of fibre quality and staple length. FR Viscose is a highly

flame resistant adaptation of viscose. Hence it is mainly used in manufacturing of protective garments,

as these fibres have quality of evenness, even when it is worn directly on the skin they are soft and

friendly to the skin.

Applications

7.2.44. Protective garments: It is used in manufacturing of work garments made from FR Viscose blends

which offer protection against potential risks such as electric arcs, fire, temporary flames, sparks and

molten metal splashes.

Automotive industry: It is also used in manufacturing of automotive seat fabrics

House Furnishing: FR Viscose is used in manufacturing fire resistant mattress, carpets, sofa cover,

etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.45. Some of the key global manufacturers of FR Viscose fibre are Shandong Helon Textile Sci. & Tech.

Co. Ltd (China), Lenzing AG (Austria), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.46. FR Viscose fibre is not manufactured in India and is majorly imported from countries like USA, EU,

Japan, etc.

496

Exhibit 7.2.6: FR Viscose - Imports for FY09


USA 813.3 25.9%

EU 605.5 59.3%

Japan 155.4 -2.5%

China 27.6 63.0%

Others 37.5 128.7%

Total 1,639.3 32.6%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports for FR Viscose is estimated by clubbing imports under 55020010 and 55020090

Flame Retardant (FR) Polyester

Properties

7.2.47. FR Ployester is manufactured by adding flame retardant agent in the polymerization process of the

polyester, and via contraction, the phosphor flame retardant is polymerized. Because the flame

retardant components are evenly distributed in the large molecule chain, a long lasting flame retardant

performance is created. Even under high temperature and pressure, the flame retardant components

do not break or separate out. Therefore, in addition to maintaining good spinning quality for the fabric,

washing resistance is also maintained.

Applications

7.2.48. Automotive Industry: It can be used in manufacturing of automobile seat covers,

House furnishing: FR polyester is used in manufacturing of fire retardant curtains, carpet, tents used

in commercial complexes, shopping malls, etc.

Protective clothing: It is used in manufacturing special working fire retardant clothes used for industrial

applications.

It can also be used for Fire Retardant uniforms for workers, FR tarpaulins & awnings, FR upholstered

furniture material, etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.49. Some of the key global manufacturers of FR Polyester Fibres are, DuPont, Shanghai Jingmao

Industrial Co. Ltd (China), Aquafil SpA (Italy), Trevira, etc.

497

Indian Scenario

7.2.50. Reliance is the only manufacturer of this fibre in India, hence these are majorly imported from

countries like Japan, USA, China, EU, etc to cater domestic demand. (Refer to the table below).

Exhibit 7.2.7: FR polyester - Imports for FY09


Malaysia 344.5 5.3%

China 256.4 96.9%


Indonesia 62.5 48.0%

Taiwan 36.8 -14.2%

Thailand 33.9 -49.1%

EU 29.2 -21.7%

Others 20.7 36.1%

Total 922.2 16.9%

Note: Imports for FR Polyester are taken under HS Code 55032000

High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Nylon

Properties

7.2.51. High Tenacity Nylon is a multi-filament polyamide fibre characterized by high tenacity and low

shrinkage properties. Such fibres are used in various industrial applications.

Application

7.2.52. High tenacity nylon filament yarn is used for manufacturing ropes, twines, seat belt webbing,

automobile airbags, watch and bag straps, etc and used for reinforcement of tyre and MRG

(Mechanical Rubber Goods).

Global Scenario

7.2.53. Some of the major global manufacturers of this fibre are Junma (China), Kordsa (Turkey), etc.

498

Indian Scenario

7.2.54. Even though, India has achieved self-sufficiency in nylon industry, high tenacity nylon is majorly

imported from countries like China, Taiwan, Indonesia, EU, etc. SRF is the only Indian manufacturer

which manufactures this product.

Exhibit 7.2.8: High Tenacity Nylon - Imports for FY09


China 540.2 -9.0%

Taiwan 322.8 38.3%

Indonesia 318.8 -24.5%

EU 143.8 -10.5%

South Africa 70.8 30.6%

Other European countries 37.3 -53.7%

USA 26.0 -7.4%

Others 67.2 -52.6%

Total 1,526.9 -14.9%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports for High Tenacity Nylon are taken under HS Code 54021910 and 54021990

High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Polyester

Properties

7.2.55. High Tenacity Fibre is strong, has resistant to stretching and shrinking and resistant to most

chemicals. It also has properties of quick drying, crisp or resilient when wet or dry, wrinkle resistant,

mildew resistant, abrasion resistant. Thus, it is extensively used in house furnishing.

Application

7.2.56. House furnishing: This fibre is majorly used in manufacturing of ropes, carpets, mattresses, curtains,

etc.

These are also used for slings, webbings and tapes; conveyor belts, belting duck, mooring ropes,

cordages, sewing threads, industrial safety nets, sports nets, tarpaulins, tents, awnings,

geosynthetics, industrial filters, etc and also used for reinforcement of tyre and MRG (Mechanical

Rubber Goods).

499

Global Scenario

7.2.57. Some of the major global manufacturers of this fibre are, Performance Fibres (USA), Teijin Twaron

(Japan), Toray Industries (Japan), Hyosung Corp, etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.58. In India, Reliance and SRF are the major manufacturers of this fibre. However major portion of

domestic demand is catered through imports from China, Taiwan, Indonesia, EU, etc.

Exhibit 7.2.9: High Tenacity Polyester - Imports for FY09


China 576.1 62.8%

Taiwan 364.6 50.1%

Indonesia 194.1 10.0%

EU 178.2 -10.6%

South Africa 86.0 -30.8%

Other European countries 17.7 296.3%

USA 40.6 -67.0%

Total 1,457.3 5.3%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports for High Tenacity polyester are taken under HS Code 54022010 and 54022090

High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity polypropylene

Properties

7.2.59. High Tenacity Polypropylene fibre is known for its high strength and stability. Hence this fibre is mostly

consider to manufacturing various products used in construction and industrial applications

Application

7.2.60. Industrial application: This fibre is used in manufacturing of ropes, cordages, etc used in different

industrial applications.

Construction: This fibre is also used in different construction and building as roofing sheets etc.

Others: Manufacturing of safety belt, Christmas tree, etc.

500

Global Scenario

Some of the key global manufacturers of this fibre are DuPont (USA), Drake (Fibres) Ltd (UK), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.61. Reliance and Haldia Petrochemical can supply the raw material for this product. However majority of

demand is met through imports from USA, EU, S Korea, China, etc.

Exhibit 7.2.10: High Tenacity Polypropylene - Imports for FY09


USA 3.7 -23.4%

EU 3.2 2.0%

S Korea 2.7 -47.9%

China 1.3 12.8%

Malaysia 1.2 79.3%

Others 5.1 -40.5%

Total 12.8 -39.6%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports for High Tenacity polypropylene are taken under HS Code 55034000

High Tenacity/ Super high tenacity Viscose

Properties

7.2.62. Viscose fibre is made from lumber, bulrush, linter or cellulose via a chemical process. Viscose fibre

consists of filament and short fibre. Filament is also called rayon or tenasco, while short fibre consists

of artificial cotton, imitation wool and medium length fibre. Presently, high tenacity viscose fibre and

koplon (including polynosic) have cast off the shortcomings of common novamat like low strength and

low humidity. Viscose fibre has its properties close to natural fibre.

Applications

7.2.63. High tenacity viscose fibre in cord thread and ropes used in different industrial and construction

applications.

501

Global Scenario

7.2.64. Some of the key global manufacturers of high tenacity viscose are Toyoba (Japan), Glanzstoff Austria

GmbH, Lenzing AG (Austria), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.65. Century Rayon Ltd is the major manufacturer of this fibre in India. Major portion of this fibre is

imported from countries like China and EU.

Exhibit 7.2.11: High Tenacity Viscose - Imports for FY09


China 60.5 227.4%

EU 2.1 -60.9%

S Korea 1.5 n.m.

Total 64.3 55.9%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports for High Tenacity viscose are taken under HS Code 54031010, 54031020 and 54031090

Ceramic Fibre

Properties

7.2.66. Ceramic fibres are manufactured from alumino silicate glass which is used for thermal insulation in

high temperature applications. In 1960s aluminium-silicate-based "ceramic fibres" were first time

introduced in Europe. Due to their high temperature-resistance and good technical properties, they

quickly became the reference for industrial high-temperature insulation.

Application

7.2.67. Home appliances: Ceramics are used in the manufacture of knives, heating appliances, etc.

Industrial application: It is also used in manufacturing of furnace, insulation for steam and gas

turbines. Aero planes: Due to its high strength and low weight, it is also used in manufacturing of aero

plane bodies.

Global Scenario

7.2.68. Some of the major global manufacturers of this fibre are, Nippon Carbon (Japan), 3M, Techno-Physik

Engineering GmbH (Germany), etc.

502

Indian Scenario

7.2.69. Unifrax India Ltd is one of the Indian manufacturers of this product in India. The major portion of the

domestic demand is satisfied through imports. (Refer the table below).

Exhibit 7.2.12: Ceramic fibre - Imports for FY09


China 22.9 52.9%

USA 14.7 76.2%

European Union 20.9 157.1%

Others 1.8 156.8%

Total 60.2 83.2%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports of Ceramic Fibre are taken under HS Code 69039030

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

Properties

7.2.70. PTFE has an excellent dielectric property, making it suitable for the use of insulator in cables and

connector assemblies. Combined with this PTFE also has high melting temperature, which makes it

the material of choice as a high-performance substitute for the weaker and lower melting point

polyethylene that is commonly used in low-cost applications.

Applications

7.2.71. Home appliance: PTFE is majorly used in non-stick coating for pans and other cookware.

Laboratory applications: PTFE's high corrosion resistance makes it ideal for laboratory environments

as containers, magnetic stirrer coatings, and as tubing for highly corrosive chemicals such as

hydrofluoric acid, which will dissolve glass containers.

Global Scenario

7.2.72. Some of the key global manufacturers of PTFE Fibres are, DuPont (USA), Newton Filaments, Inc

(USA), Albany Internation Inc. (USA), Toyobo (Japan), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.73. PTFE fibres are not manufactured in India and are majorly imported from countries like USA, EU and

China, etc. (Refer to the table given below).

503

Exhibit 7.2.13: PTFE - Imports for FY09


Nepal 2.4 nm

USA 1.1 36.5%


Others 0.3 -60.6%

Total 4.7 -39.0%

Source: CMIE

Note: Imports for PTFE is taken from HS Code 54026950

nm: Not meaningful as there were no exports in FY07

PBI Fibres

Properties

7.2.74. PBI (Polybenzimidazole) stable fiber is an organic fiber that provides thermal stability for a wide range

of high temperature applications. PBI fiber does not burn in air or melt. It shows high strength and

flexibility when exposed to flame. As the backbone of various flame resistant fabric blends, PBI fiber

enhances the performance of complementary fibers, combining flame-resistance and thermal

protection with the highest level of comfort, durability, and protection available in the world.

Applications

7.2.75. Aero planes: It is used manufacturing various part used in aero planes

Automotive industry: It is also used in manufacturing various automotive parts and components such

as bearings, bushings, etc.

Electrical equipments: It is also used in manufacturing of electrical parts, insulation shield, sealing

devices, semiconductor molding compounds. Etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.76. Celanese Acetate is the only global manufacturer which is involved in manufacturing of this fibre

Indian Scenario

7.2.77. No manufacturer was observed to be involved in manufacturing of PBI Fibre in India. Further, as HS

Code are not designated to this fibre, the import of the same cannot be estimated.

504

PBO Fibres

Properties

7.2.78. PBO – Fibre Zylon is said to be the strongest fibre that is commercially available. The tensile strength

of this fibre is higher than para-aramids like Kevlar and Twaron and high performance polyethylene

(Dyneema and Spectra).

Applications

7.2.79. Defence application: Due to its inherent high tensile strength and high flame resistance properties this

bullet proof vests, body armor, etc.

Other protective clothing: This fibre is use in manufacturing of protective clothing like helmets, fire

fighting clothing, etc.

Global Scenario

7.2.80. Toyobo Co. Ltd. (Japan) is the only global manufacturer which is involved in manufacturing of this

fibre

Indian Scenario

7.2.81. No manufacturer was observed to be involved in manufacturing of PBO Fibre in India. Further, as HS

Code are not designated to this fibre, the import of the same cannot be estimated.

Anti-microbial/Anti-fungal/Anti-bacterial Fibres

Properties

7.2.82. An anti-microbial and/or anti-fungal and/or anti-bacterial fibre comprises of various thermoplastic

polymers and additives in a mono-component or bi-component form. The active agent, incorporated

into the fibre, prevents and limits the growth of bacteria/fungi/microbes. These fibres find application in

dressing materials, surgical threads, sanitary materials, home textiles, sportswear, amongst others.

They can also be used for making packaging materials for the pharmaceutical industry, food

processing industry, footwear industry.

7.2.83. Two types of anti-microbial agents used in anti-microbial fibres are metallic silver and organic surface

treatments. The agent present in the fibre reduces the spread of infection, reduces offensive odor due

to bacterial and/or fungal growth and also reduces staining and degradation of textiles.

505

Application

7.2.84. Medical applications: Antimicrobial fibres including anti-bacterial and anti-fungal fibres find application

in the areas like, protective clothing for doctors, nurses, care staff, employees in food manufacturing

and food processing, etc.

Sports application: It is also used in manufacturing of Sportswear,

House furnishing: These fibres are also recently used in manufacturing of household apparels like

curtains and drapes, upholstery fabrics, filling materials for pillows, blankets, towels, etc.

7.2.85. These also find applications as patients uniforms, hospital bed linens, uniforms for defence

personnels and para military forces working in adverse climatic conditions, childern‟s school uniforms,

bandages, crepe bandages, etc

Global Scenario

7.2.86. With growing awareness about a healthy lifestyle and availability of antimicrobial fibre technologies, a

number of textile products using antimicrobial agents have been developed and a few of them are

also available commercially. Some of the key global manufacturers engaged in manufacturing of this

fibre are Trevira, Montefibre, Brilen, Sterling, Kaneba and Zimmer AG.

Indian Scenario

7.2.87. The demand for this fibre has also increased in India significantly due to rise in the middle class

population and increase in the lifestyle. Reliance and Indo Rama are the major manufacturers of

these fibres in India. The imports of these fibres cannot be estimated due to non-existence of the HS

code.

Potential

7.2.88. There exists tremendous potential for anti-microbial fibres in India, as they find application in a

number of fields. Antimicrobial based textile products and thus antimicrobial fabrics and fibers are

likely to register healthy growth numbers in the coming years. Increasing awareness for a healthy

environment, increasing consumer demand for comfort and functionality would lead to higher demand

for products made from anti-microbial fabrics. The use of anti-microbial fibres in leisure wear, casual

wear and fashion wear (largely due to its de-odorising properties) would increase in the coming years.

Phenolic Fibre

Properties

7.2.89. Phenolic resin based coir/glass hybrid composites were developed using compression molding

followed by hand lay-up technique. Mechanical properties such as tensile and flexural properties of

coir based hybrid composites were investigated as a function of fiber content and fiber volume

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fraction. This study is focused on the mechanical performance of coir based and its hybrid

composites.

Application

7.2.90. Phenolic fibres are used in manufacturing of automotive and electrical components.

Global Scenario

7.2.91. Some of the key global manufacturers of this fibre are Phenco (USA), The Vermont Organic Fiber

Company (USA), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.92. No manufacturer was observed to be involved in manufacturing of this fibre in India. Further, as HS

Code is not designated to this fibre, the import of the same cannot be estimated.

Conductive Fibre

Properties

7.2.93. Conductive fibres find application in the manufacture of woven/nonwoven textiles which are used to

control electrostatic discharge in commercial, service or industrial areas where static electricity can

lead to a wide range of problems. These fibres reduce danger and damage associated with

electrostatic discharge. For the manufacture of conductive fibres, the outer layer of the nylon fibre is

flooded with electrically conductive carbon particles. Thereby, the fibre retains the flexibility and

strength of the nylon while carbon enables it to be electrically conductive. These combined features

make the fibres ideal for usage in chemical, thermal and mechanical manufacturing processes.

Applications

7.2.94. Conductive fibre finds usage in the following:

House furnishing: Conductive fibres are used in the manufacture of anti-static carpets and its

backing.

Nonwovens: These fibres are used in the manufacture of nonwoven products like dry

filtration, conductive papers, among others.

Apparels: Conductive fibres are best suited for the manufacture of garments like electronics

manufacturing garments, clean room garments, military garments, refineries, paint spraying,

medical applications, among others.

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Industrial applications: These fibres find application in manufacture of industrial products like

seat belts, automotive upholstery, antistatic conveyor belts, conductive brushes, commercial

upholstery, bulk bags, among others.

Global Scenario

7.2.95. Shakespeare Conductive Fibres LLC and Bekaert are the leading global manufacturers of conductive

fibres.

Indian Scenario

7.2.96. Bekaert‟s Indian subsidiary is the only manufacturer of this fibre in India. Since HS Code has not been

designated to this fibre, the imports cannot be estimated.

Fibre for concrete re-inforcement

Properties

7.2.97. Polypropylene and recently Polyester have been used as reinforcement fibres for this application. It

offers following advantages:

Prevents premature cracks of concrete

Prolongs the life span of concrete

Increases crack resistance in low temperature

Increases fatigue resistance

Improves flexibility, seepage resistance and wear resistance

Improves stability in high temperature

Applications

7.2.98. This fibre is majorly used in construction and building activites

Global Scenario

7.2.99. Advansa (Turkey) and Sterling Fibres are a key manufacturer of Concrete Re-inforcement fibres

globally

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Indian Scenario

7.2.100. In India, the leading manufacturers are Reliance Industries Ltd for both Polyester and Polypropylene

staple fibres and M/S Zenith fibres and M/S Tufropes for Polypropylene staple fibre which are used in

concrete reinforcement.

Alginate Fibres

Properties

7.2.101. Highly absorbent and gelling calcium alginate fibres are manufactured from sodium alginate extracted

from seaweed. Calcium alginate is used worldwide in the production of wound dressings where the

principle of a moist wound environment encourages more effective healing.

Application

7.2.102. Medical applications: This fibre is used in medical applications for wound dressing and healing,

Other: textile printing, food processing, chemical industries as a biocatalyst.

Gobal Scenario

7.2.103. Some of the key global manufacturers of this fibre are Speciality Fibres and Materials Ltd (UK), FMC

Biopolymer (USA), Degussa Texturant Systems (Germany), Danisco Cultor (Denmark), Kimica

Corporation (Japan), China Seaweed Industrial Association (China), etc.

Indian Scenario

7.2.104. No manufacturer was observed to be involved in manufacturing of this fibre in India. Further, as HS

Code is not designated to this fibre, the import of the same cannot be estimated.

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7.3. ISSUES AND CONCERNS

LOW PENETRATION IN DOMESTIC MARKET AND LIMITED

AWARENESS

7.3.1. Technical textiles sector in India is at a nascent stage in terms of market development. There is lack

of awareness amongst the entrepreneurs as well as consumers about the usage, benefits and high

growth potential. At present, the major deterrent for expansion of the sector is low demand.

7.3.2. There is a need to create awareness and demand for technical textile products, especially those that

can contribute towards safety and health of people and boost economic growth of country like

providing good infrastructure etc. Some of the critical technical textiles segments are Agrotech,

Meditech, Protech and Geotech. The government has recognised these segments as focus areas for

promotion and various policy and promotional measures are being undertaken for these segments.

However, more attention is required to enable faster development of market for these products.

INADEQUATE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

7.3.3. In India, research and development in the area of fibres is conducted by various Textile Research

Associations like ATIRA, BTRA, SITRA, NITRA, WRA, SASMIRA and MANTRA, R&D institutions, IIT,

various engineering/ technology colleges and Post Graduate departments under different universities,

State Research Institutes/ Sector specific development boards and corporations under State/ Central

govt. However, research on regenerated fibres has not been carried out by any of the research

organisations except the in-house R&D centres. Similarly, research on manmade fibres has also been

limited and most of the R&D for commercialisation is addressed by in-house R&D centres of big

players.

7.3.4. In contrast, internationally, R&D on manmade fibres is carried out by various universities and research

organisations devoted to textile research under public funded institutions. Moreover, there is focused

effort on polymer research as well, which is critical for development of synthetic fibres. Internationally,

many R&D centres for synthetic fibres development have backward integration for polymer research.

7.3.5. In order to promote indigenous development of high performance and speciality fibres, strengthening

of India‟s research and development capabilities in the area of speciality fibres is extremely important.

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TECHNOLOGY HURDLES

7.3.6. The technology required for manufacturing of most of the speciality fibres is proprietary and very

expensive. High cost and low demand have deterred Indian players to develop speciality fibres

indigenously. However, from a long term perspective, India needs to have the capability to

indigenously manufacture most of the identified speciality fibres. Thus, there is a need to acquire the

technology from abroad and incentivise purchase of same.

7.3.7. There is also a huge technological gap between technology used in competitor countries and that

used in India for manufacturing of technical textiles as most of the production is in the unorganized

sector. There is thus scope for massive technology up-gradation. Government can play a major role

by subsidising/encouraging acquisition of technology by manufacturers for development of

technical textiles. There is also need for strong world class testing facilities to be developed in India

for accurate and relevant evaluation of technical textile to satisfy the stringent and critical

requirements of performance related product parameters in the global market.

NON AVAILABILITY OF HSN CODES

7.3.8. The HSN code classification for a number of speciality fibres is not available at the eight-digit level,

while for some of the speciality fibres, such as meta-aramid and para-aramid fibre, the HSN code is

same. This creates difficulty in studying the trend in production, imports and exports of the speciality

fibres. Also, a number of speciality fibres are clubbed together under the heading „Others‟, thus

making it impossible to study the trends of the individual speciality fibres.

7.3.9. Moreover, any fiscal incentive desired only for speciality fibres would be difficult to implement if no

specific HS codes are available for the same. Thus, it is essential that HS codes for all the identified

focus speciality fibres are identified and if not available, then suitable codes at 8 or 10 digit need to be

proposed. A list of proposed HS codes prepared by the sub-group has been provided in the chapter

on „Recommendations‟.

7.3.10. Another related issue of HS codes is with respect to classification of converted products of

nonwovens, namely wet wipes consumer packs, nonwoven gauze and bandages, and nonwoven

drapes, gowns, sheets and masks. These are presently not classified along with nonwoven under ITC

code 5603.

7.3.11. At present, Wet Wipes consumer packs are covered under Chapter 33 ,Tariff item 3307 with

general description-Pre-shave, shaving or after-shave preparation, personal deodorants, bath

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preparation, depilatories and other perfumery, cosmetic or toilet preparations, not elsewhere specified

or included, prepared room deodorizers, whether or not perfumed or having disinfectant properties.

The reason for this is that the Notes to the Chapter 56 -1(a) mentions that this Chapter does not cover

waddings, felt or nonwovens, impregnated, coated or covered with substances or preparations(e.g.

perfumes or cosmetics of Chapter 33, soaps or detergents of heading 3401, polishes, creams or

similar preparations of heading 3405 fabric softeners of heading 3809) where the textile material is

present merely as a carrying medium. However, when Nonwoven fabric is used in downstream

products as Wet Wipes Consumer Packs, it is not present nearly as a carrying medium. There are

technical attributes in Nonwovens that are very important. The manufacturing process for the

Nonwovens for this end use is known as spunlace technology. Thus, Consumer Wet Wipes Packs

should not be disallowed in Chapter 56, Para 5603, as the textile materials is not present merely as

carrying medium. It is fulfilling technical and functional requirement in this end use.

7.3.12. Further, there is no specific Tariff Heading of Nonwoven Gauze and Bandages in the Excise

Schedule, this product is covered by Heading 3005 - Wadding, gauze, bandages and similar articles,

impregnated or coated with pharmaceutical substances or put up in forms or packings for retail sale

for medical, surgical, dental or veterinary purposes. These items are normally produced with

100%cotton fibres. However, synthetic and rayon fibres are used for production of Nonwovens. Thus,

Gauze and Bandages without any medication should be covered by Tariff Heading 5603 -

Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated. Similarly, there is no specific

tariff for Nonwoven Drapes, Gowns, Sheets and Face masks also.

FISCAL ANOMALIES

7.3.13. Over the last decade, fiscal duties on synthetic fibres have been brought down drastically and most of

the fiscal anomalies existing in past have been done away with. However, a few products still

exhibit anomalies with respect to the excise duties, customs duty and VAT. The technical textile

products that continue to face fiscal anomaly have been identified hereafter.

a) Excise duty anomalies

7.3.14. There exist duty anomalies in the technical textiles industry wherein an excise duty is levied on the

raw material while the finished product has been exempt from the duty. Some of the products

exhibiting such anomaly are – Baby diapers, Incontinence diapers and Sanitary napkins. On

these three products, there exists an excise duty exemption. However, if a player wants to

manufacture this product, he has to pay higher price for the raw material as raw materials used for

manufacturing this (polypropylene/ polyethylene) attract an excise duty of 8%. If the manufacturer

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does not pay an excise duty, he is not entitled to claim modvat on same. Thus, most industry players

prefer importing the finished product than manufacturing same indigenously as imported

product turns out cheaper.

b) Customs duty anomalies

7.3.15. One of the customs duty related anomaly has been observed in case of aramid yarn. At present

aramid yarns can be imported without attracting any import duty only if conditions specified in Sr. no.

16 under general exemption 9 of provisions for Government imports including for defence and police

are met. Customs duty on aramid yarn is waived off only if it is used in the manufacture of bullet-proof

jackets. However, independent manufacturer of aramid fabric (which is used in manufacture of

bullet-proof jackets) is not entitled to this exemption and has to pay customs duty. Thus it is

suggested that there should not be discrimination between the importers of aramid yarn if that yarn is

ultimately used for manufacturing of bullet proof jackets for defence and police personnel.

7.3.16. The existing provision for customs duty waiver on aramid yarn has another issue. Generally, the

tenders for bullet proof jackets stipulate a limited period for delivery, which makes it difficult for the

importer to import aramid yarn and then convert it into substrates and get it processed for fabrication

into bullet proof jackets. Thus, the importers usually end up importing fabric itself, thereby defeating

the purpose of said exemption to promote indigenisation.

7.3.17. Thus, it is suggested that an importer should be allowed to import yarn against advance licence

without paying import duty with an obligation to fulfill conditions mentioned in Sr. no. 16 along with the

description of goods or export to neighbouring countries. This would enable the importer to import

yarn without paying import duty. At the same time, he will have to meet the conditions laid down in the

Exemptions ensuring that such imports without payment of import duty is not used for the purpose

other than the purpose for which the Exemption has been granted.

c) VAT anomalies

7.3.18. Currently, the VAT rate in some states (like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka) is different for the same products

based on the base fibre used. For instance, in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, VAT of 12.6% is levied on

tarpaulins/awnings made from synthetic fibres while a VAT of 4% is charged on the product

manufactured from cotton.

7.3.19. Also, there exists an anomaly in treatment of domestically manufactured textile products vis-à-vis that

of imported textiles. For instance, some textile products which are indigenously manufactured are

exempt from VAT while a duty of 4% is levied on the same products if they are imported.

7.3.20. Hence, it is suggested that VAT rates should be uniform for technical textile products irrespective of

the base fibre used and irrespective of the origin source (domestic or imported).

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d) Anomalies w.r.t. Nonwovens

7.3.21. At present, there exists a discrepancy in fiscal treatment of nonwovens and other textile

products. It has been observed that several nonwoven products attract a higher excise duty as

against other textile products. For instance, currently excise duty for packaged finished goods is 14%,

for unpackaged products it is 10% and for rolled goods 8%.

7.3.22. Also, DEPB for nonwoven and converted products do not find a mention and needs to be notified.

REGULATORY ISSUES

7.3.23. Most of the technical textile products have high potential in the domestic market as the present level

of consumption is very low. One of the reasons for low penetration, especially in the meditech

segment is the existence of regulations that discourage use of modern technical textile products. For

instance, the Indian Drugs & Cosmetics Act 1940 and Indian Pharmacopoeia recognize only woven

medical products, due to which the consumption of nonwoven fabrics in medical area is very

low.

7.3.24. Similarly, in other segments like geotech, absence of Indian standards has led to a low consumption

of geo-textiles over conventional methods. Further, the usage of fire retardant textiles in public

places is currently suggested in the National Building Code (NBC) but is not mandatory. Necessary

regulatory amendments should be affected to the Municipal and Town Planning Acts to ensure

compliance. The use of seat belts and airbags can limit serious chest injuries in frontal collision by 65

percent, and serious head injuries by 75 percent. Realising the importance of the safety of persons

traveling in commercial vehicles, a rule for the installation and use of seat belts was introduced.

However, no such provision exists for airbags.

7.3.25. Thus, it is desired that the concerned Ministries amend the existing regulations to include

performance oriented modern technical textile product as well.

CONCERNS OVER GST

7.3.26. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is to be introduced in the country from April 2010. It would be of

similar nature of VAT but would include other indirect taxes such as Cenvat, service tax. It would be

dual GST comprising of Central GST and State GST. GST would be destination based, while sales

tax and VAT for inter-state transactions are origin-based. On inter-state transactions of goods &

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services, IGST (Integrated GST) would be applicable which would be equal to C-GST and S-CST.

The interstate transactions would include sales of goods and services and inter-state depot transfer of

goods.

7.3.27. The textiles industry involves a lot of inter-state transfers especially at the fabric stage. As GST

would be applicable on inter-state depot transfers, it could lead to blockage of funds/cash flow issues

as no credit would be available on the finished goods stock at such depots, unless they are sold. The

same concern holds for imported goods as well. Another area of concern is the treatment of stock

transfers and job work under GST. It is also not clear whether optional cenvat would be available

for textile industries under GST.

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7.4. RECOMMENDATIONS

7.4.1. The policy recommendations made by the sub-group on Speciality fibres for the national fibre policy

can be categorised into two types, namely:

Fiscal recommendations and

Non fiscal recommendations

7.4.2. The indigenous development of speciality fibres is highly dependent upon the demand for these

fibres in the domestic market from the downstream industry, i.e. the technical textile manufacturers.

Thus, besides the recommendations for speciality fibres, the group has also proposed specific fiscal

and non-fiscal recommendations for technical textile products with a view to increase their

consumption and production in India.

7.4.3. Fiscal measures mainly include rationalisation of the current duty structure, both excise and customs,

and removal of anomalies, if any. The objective of these measures is to attain fibre neutral duty

regime and do not put any segment of the value chain at any disadvantage. These measures are of

utmost importance to boost production and consumption of technical textiles and speciality fibres in

India.

7.4.4. Non-fiscal measures are also required to provide boost to the production and consumption of

technical textiles in India. These measures take the form of any institutional support and incentives to

encourage research and domestic production of fibres to ensure adequate supply of fibres to the

industry over the long term.

7.4.5. Further, the awareness level with regard to benefits/ usage of technical textiles in the country is quite

low. Therefore, for encouraging the adoption of technical textile products, some products require

regulatory framework while some others require encouragement by the concerned Ministries.

7.4.6. Various fiscal and non-fiscal recommendations are discussed in detail below.

FISCAL MEASURES: FOR IDENTIFIED SPECIALITY FIBRES

Excise duty incentives

7.4.7. At present, there is very limited indigenous production of identified speciality fibres (only high tenacity

fibres, carbon fibre, glass fibre, etc are being manufactured in India and in limited quantities). In order

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to promote indigenisation of speciality fibres in India, it is desired that some excise incentives are

provided to their manufacturers.

7.4.8. Thus, to provide some additional boost to domestic production of the identified focus speciality fibres,

it is recommended that excise duty on these focus fibres should be reduced to 4% (from the current

level of 8%).

Customs duty reduction

7.4.9. To reduce the input cost of manufacturing speciality fibres, it is desired that the import duties on key

raw materials and certain additives should be lowered. Customs duties on the following items require

revision:

(i) Import duty and CVD on additives used in Flame retardant speciality fibres and other

speciality fibres should be removed.

Some of the additives identified for this purpose are:

FR chemicals for viscose rayon – Alkyl, aryl and halogenated alkyl or aryl phosphates,

phosphazenes, phosphonates, and polyphosphonates; antimony compounds such as

antimony oxide, antimony trichloride and phosphoric acid

FR chemicals for polyester - THPC, APO, PNC, Methylol dialkyl phosphonium carbonic acid

amide.

(ii) Capital equipment used in the manufacture of identified speciality fibres should be

exempted from Custom duty.

Introduce Special Incentive Package Scheme

7.4.10. The government should consider introduction of a special incentive package for enabling

Indian or foreign companies to set up manufacturing facilities for speciality fibres, thereby

strengthening the raw material base for Indian technical textile industry.

7.4.11. Such incentive package will help in bridging the viability gap due to lack of adequate

infrastructure and eco-system. While this will involve an initial cost by the government, the return on

investments in the form of contribution to GDP will justify the incentives planned.

7.4.12. The special incentive package scheme for speciality fibres should include following provisions:

i) The scheme should cover all identified speciality fibres

ii) A unit can claim incentives from the government in the form of capital subsidy or equity

participation, as follows:

a. equity in project, not exceeding 26%

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b. capital subsidy in the form of investment grant and interest subsidy, as detailed

below:

The Central government or any of its agencies should provide incentive of 20% of

capital expenditure during the first 10 years for the units in SEZs and 25% of capital

expenditure for non SEZ units. Capital expenditure can be total capital expenditure in

land, building, plant and machinery and technology, including R&D

iii) The special incentive package should be available for 5 years from the launch of the policy

FISCAL MEASURES: FOR TECHNICAL TEXTILES PRODUCTS

Removal of fiscal anomalies

a. Removal of anomalies w.r.t. Nonwovens

7.4.13. It is desired that there should be uniform excise duty across the entire value chain of Technical

Textiles. At present, there exists excise duty differential in nonwovens and other textiles.

It is recommended that the excise duty levied on nonwovens should be uniform with that

levied on other textiles.

7.4.14. Further, the government to promote exports announced the Duty Entitlement Passbook Scheme

(DEPB) which allows drawback of import charges that are levied on raw materials used in the

manufacture of export products. Currently, nonwoven and converted products are not included in the

DEPB scheme and hence it is recommended that these two categories of Technical Textile products

are covered in the scope of the DEPB scheme.

b. Removal of excise anomalies

7.4.15. The excise duty anomaly present for baby diapers, sanitary napkins and incontinence diapers have

discouraged indigenous production of these products.

It is desired that the excise duty on these products is rationalised

7.4.16. Excise duty anomaly also exists with respect to manufacture of aramid fabric by an independent

manufacturer, which needs to be corrected. If an independent manufacturer imports yarn and

manufactures fabric, such fabric may be exempt from excise duty provided the same is supplied to

bullet-proof jacket manufacturers who supply to army and police. Currently the excise duty

exemption is available only to bullet-proof jacket manufacturers who captively manufacture

and consume the fabric towards making of bullet-proof vests.

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c. Removal of customs anomalies

7.4.17. It is recommended that the current customs duty anomaly existing for aramid yarn may be removed.

The customs duty exemption may be allowed even to an independent manufacturer of aramid

fabric, which will be used for production of bullet-proof jackets for defence and police

personnel.

d. Removal of VAT anomalies

7.4.18. VAT rates should be uniform for technical textiles products irrespective of the base fibre used

and irrespective of the source of origin of the product, whether from domestic market or from

imports.

Exemption from GST

7.4.19. The textile industry has concerns with respect to the GST, which is likely to be introduced from next

year.

Technical Textiles should be exempted from GST for a period of at least two years.

Increase in capital subsidy under TUFS for SMEs

7.4.20. At present, TUFS is applicable to manufacturers of Technical textile products.

To provide incentives to encourage development of technical textiles industry, 25% capital

subsidy should be provided in lieu of 10% capital subsidy and 5% interest rate subsidy to

small & medium entrepreneurs (upto capital investment of Rs 2 crores) engaged in

manufacture of technical textile products.

7.4.21. The existing TUFS provisions can however continue for large manufacturers.

A suggested list of machines that can be eligible under this scheme is provided in the annexure 7.A.5.

NON – FISCAL MEASURES: FOR IDENTIFIED SPECIALITY FIBRES

Establishment of a Centre for Fundamental Research

7.4.22. Present research activities in the area of textile fibres across the world reveal that significant research

is being done on the development of fibres for technical applications. These new developments are

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based on polymer modifications, fibre modification and modifications of fibre surface. In order to

remain competitive and make major inroad into the technical textiles, it is essential to develop

our R&D base in the area of fibres so that development can be done in the areas such as:

Biodegradable Fibres

Functional Fibres – those intended for specific applications like moisture absorption, anti-

bacterial, electrically conductive, anti-static, anti-odour, etc

High Performance Fibres – characterized by high strength, high modulus, resistance to wear,

deformation, chemicals & high temperature

Smart Fibres – those responsive to different conditions of stimuli like PH, temperature,

moisture, etc

Nano fibres

7.4.23. This is going to be an interdisciplinary activity involving chemists, chemical engineers, polymer

scientist and textile professional.

An R&D centre with a funding of at least Rs 50 crores is recommended at either NCL Pune, one

of the IITs or UICT Mumbai.

7.4.24. Of the focused 23 speciality fibres, it is found that fibres like High Tenacity Flame retardant,

Carbon, Glass Fibre and Modacrylic Fibres have a huge demand in our country and currently

there are only a handful of manufacturers producing these fibres. Hence, development of these

fibres on priority basis may be initiated in India on a Public-Private-Partnership basis over the next 5 -

10 years.

7.4.25. A high level of funding is sought from the government for research and development of these

fibres. For this, a joint venture amongst Institutions like IIT, ICT or Textile Research Associations with

the Industry participation could be considered. Technology for manufacturing of these fibres may be

worked out and Pilot scale units can be set up for development of these fibres.

Set up Incubation centres

7.4.26. It is recommended that incubation centres should be set-up for transfer of technology and acceptance

of innovative technologies by the industry.

Creation of world-class laboratories in Centres of Excellence

7.4.27. Well-equipped laboratories should be set-up in the four Centres of Excellence to extend

support of the industry in fields of testing and development, as per the requirements.

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Technology transfer through Joint Ventures

7.4.28. At present, there is very limited indigenous commercial production of speciality fibres due to lack of

appropriate technology, which is highly expensive and proprietary (for several speciality fibres). To

manufacture speciality fibres in India in the future, technology can be bought by Indian players from

abroad, developed indigenously in the country, or brought in by foreign players through FDI or through

Joint Ventures. Joint ventures are a preferred route and may be encouraged as this would enable the

Indian partners to get best and appropriate technology, get maximum experience at least cost and

time, learn best practices, and get global business knowledge. It would also facilitate knowledge of

standards and regulatory framework.

Identification of HS Codes for Focus Speciality fibres

7.4.29. As discussed in the earlier chapter, data analysis and fiscal policy recommendations for speciality

fibres can materialise once specific HS codes are assigned to them. The sub-group has identified

HS codes for the speciality fibres and proposed new HS codes (based on USITC codes) at 8 or

10 digit levels, wherever these were not identifiable. Recommendations for individual fibre’s

HS code have been presented in a table below:

Exhibit 7.4.1: Recommendations for HS codes for Speciality fibres

Identified Fibre Current HS code Remarks Proposed HS codes

Super high/ High tenacity polyester

54022010/ 54022090

This is fine for filament. For Staple fibre: 55022001

Super high/ High tenacity nylon

54021910/90 This is fine for filament. For Staple fibre: 550319001

Super high/ High tenacity polypropylene

55034000 Clubbed with regular polypropylene

55034020/30

FR polyester 55032000 Create sub-categories within PSF

5503200015/25/45/65

FR Viscose 55020010/20/90 Create sub categories within viscose rayon tow

5502000010/90

FR Modacrylic 55033000 This is clubbed with acrylic; can create sub-category at 10 dgt for modacrylic separately

5503300010/90

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Exhibit 7.4.1: Recommendations for HS codes for Speciality fibres

Identified Fibre Current HS code Remarks Proposed HS codes

Meta aramid 55031900, 54021110

Includes all aramids; can create sub category at 10 digit

5503190010/90,

5402111010/90

Para aramid 55031900, 54021110

Includes all aramids; can create sub category at 10 digit

5503190010/90, 5402111010/90

HMPE/ HDPE/ UHMWPE

55039090 Included in Others Need to create separate code at 8 dgt (55039070/80)

Carbon fibre 55039090 Included in Others Need to create separate code at 8 dgt (55039070/80)

PTFE 54026950 This is fine

Glass fibre 70199010 This is fine

Superabsorbent fibre (acrylic)

55033000 Falls under acrylic/ modacrylic; need to create 10 digit code

5503300000/10

PPS 55039090 Included in Others; need to create 10 digit code

5503901000/5503909000

Conductive fibre No code defined 55069000 (Processed synthetic staple fibres of polyester)

Can create 10 dgt sub codes within this

Phenolic fibre No code defined Create separate HS codes for Phenolic, PBO/ PAN/ PBT/ PTT fibres

55090010/ 20/30/40

PBO No code defined

Ceramic fibre 69039030 This is fine This is fine

Antimicrobial/ antibacterial fibre (polyester, polypropylene, viscose)

No code defined 54022021/54060011/55032010

Alginate fibre No code defined

Fibres for concrete re-inforcement

No code defined Clubbed under normal staple fibres

55034010, 55032030 for polypropylene and polyester

Source: Sub-group recommendations, D&B India

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7.4.30. As discussed in the previous chapter, another HSN classification issue is with respect to converted

products of nonwovens especially with respect to wet wipes consumer packs, nonwoven gauze and

bandages, and nonwoven drapes, gowns, sheets and masks. Due to the reasons cited in earlier

chapter.

It is recommended that these products be classified under ITC codes 5603, under the category

- Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated.

NON FISCAL MEASURES: FOR TECHNICAL TEXTILES PRODUCTS

Creation of standards

7.4.31. The usage of Technical Textiles products without any knowledge about their quality and proper

installation may do more harm than good. Also, the risk of subsequent damage and its consequence

due to wrong selection of material may be substantially higher. There is a need to evaluate and

compare existing and new products on same standards. This move will result in product improvement

and greater cost savings. Therefore, standard quality Technical Textiles are needed for maximum

benefits and their installation should be carried out as per standard guidelines and

procedures. Some of the benefits of standardization of Technical Textiles include:

Considerable reduction in cost of projects (materials, design, installation and evaluation)

Minimum subsequent repairs / maintenance

Prevention of environmental pollution thus leading to sustainable development

Most efficient utilization of resources

Better designs and longer project service life

Increased safety of life and property

Alternate and best technological applications for a specific end use

7.4.32. Specific segments of Technical Textiles where standardization is required on a priority basis include:

Geotech: Geotech prevents accidents, increases efficiency, leads to efficient usage of natural

resources, minimizes pollution, protects environment, gives improved performance and

provides new solutions to civil engineering problems. Geotech not only lead to savings in

running projects but minimize the regular repair and maintenance costs directly. Some of the

specific products of Geotech requiring standardization are:

o Geotextiles and geogrids for reinforcement of base and subbase layers in pavement

structures

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o Geotextiles for subsurface drainage applications

o Geotextiles for subgrade separation in pavement structures

o Geotextiles for subgrade stabilization in pavement structures

o Geotextiles used as protection (cushioning) materials for protecting geomembranes

o Geotextiles for permanent erosion control in hard armor systems

o Silt fence geotextiles and turbidityt curtains for sediment control

o Geotextiles used in pavement overlays

o Geotextiles for filtration

o Geotextiles for slope protection

o Bedding geotextiles

o Geosynthetic clay liners

o HDPE, LLDPE, flexible PP, EPDM geomembranes

o High dtrength geotextile tubes

o Gabions for bridges and coastal areas for prevention of soil erosion

o Geogrids (uniaxial and biaxial) for mechanical stabilization of earth(MSE) systems

such as MSE walls, reinforced embankment over soft foundation (RSES) and

steepened soil slopes (RSS)

o Geosynthetic mats

o Biplanar geonets and geocomposites for waste containment

o Drainage geocomposites

o Geomembranes for waterproofing of reservoirs, ponds

o Geocells

o Geofoams

o Prefabricated geosynthetic edge and vertical drains

o Geosynthetics for waste containment

o Codes of practices for storage, handling, installation and repair of geosynthetics

Buildtech: Buildtech provides durability and safety to buildings and infrastructure, increases

energy efficiency of buildings, minimizes leakages and cracks in buildings, help in moisture

management of buildings, improve disaster resistance of buildings, etc. Some of the critical

areas where standardization is required include:

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o Geo-membranes for waterproofing of flat concrete roof

o Controlled permeability textiles to be used in concrete formwork lining

o Fibres for reinforceed concrete in construction uses

o Synthetic fibre insulation blanket for use in building applications

o Reflective vapour breathable textile substrate as radiant barrier in building envelope

o Technical textiles to be used as house wraps

o Vapour breathable textile substrate as mineral wool insulation facing for building

applications

o Technical textiles as root and weed controls for landscaping

o Technical textiles as honeycombs for landscaping

o Architectural fabric/ tensile structures (temporary and permanent)

o Hoardings for buildings and other applications

Protech: Protech products are very essential for safety of human beings and they minimize

losses to human lives and property due to disasters such as fire, explosions, warfare, etc.

Important products of Protech requiring standardization include:

o Fire retardant textiles

o Bullet proof fabric/jacket (ballistic limit test)

o Protective clothing for agricultural workers (insecticides penetration, toxicity and

durability)

o Protective clothing for mechanical /chemical / nuclear / biological protection (liquid

penetration test, microbial resistance, toxicity, radiation dose, tear test, molten metal

splash, acid/alkali resistance)

o Hi-visibility / high altitude clothing (refractive index)

o Protective clothing for dust protection (soil resistance)

o Protective clothing for acoustic protection (audio test)

o Protective clothing for biological protection

o Protective clothing for electric arc welding

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Meditech: Meditech products are essentially needed to protect infections; save human lives;

provide hygienic conditions and health care, etc. Areas of Meditech where standardization is

required include:

o Extracorporeal devices

o Non-implantable materials

o Implantable textile materials

o Healthcare and hygiene products

Agrotech: Agrotech products requiring standardization include:

o Crop covers

o Greenhouse covers

o Row covers

o Poly-house films/membranes

o Shade-nets

o Mulch mats

o Baler twines

o Polyester/PP/HDPE nets for fishing

o Waterproof lining

Mandatory guidelines by different ministries

7.4.33. Some Ministries could issue guidelines which would increase the level of adoption and awareness

levels of Technical Textile products and aid in creation of a large market for these products in India.

Some specific initiatives and support required from other ministries include:

i. Mandatory usage of fire retardant fabrics in exhibition centres, cinema halls and other

public places

ii. Mandatory usage of fire retardant apparel for fire-fighting personnel

iii. Increased usage of geo-synthetics in infrastructure development projects

iv. Increased usage of nonwoven disposable Meditech products in medical institutions and

hospitals

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Increasing awareness

7.4.34. In order to boost the consumption of Technical Textile in India, it is recommended the government

increases awareness about the usage and benefits of these products. Following measures can be

undertaken by concerned Ministries to increase the level of awareness of Technical Textiles:

i. Participation in medical fairs to promote the usage of Meditech products (especially

nonwoven single use products)

ii. Organization of symposiums, road shows in different parts of India so as to familiarize

people with the application and benefits of products

iii. Creation of framework for partnership in rural areas

iv. Creation of specific programs for end use application to educate users about benefits of

the products.

o Agro sector for crop protection

o Renewable energy for rural areas

o Usage of geotextiles for benefits like long lasting roads, protection of coastal and

cyclone prone areas, etc

o Use of hygiene products & sanitary napkins

v. Incorporation of new generation medical textiles manufactured from MMFs and their

blends in Indian Pharmacopoeia and change in Schedule F-2 of Indian Drugs & Cosmetics

Act. New Generation medical textiles like antibacterial, anti allergic bandages, absorbent

gauges, swabs, wipes, sponges, sanitary napkins, incontinence diapers, surgical gowns, etc

which are manufactured from MMFs are currently not included in the scope of Indian

Pharmacopeia and Indian Drugs & Cosmetics Act. Hence, it is important to include these

products in relevant Acts as these products are also hygienic, technically superior, reduce

chances of infection and therefore are widely preferred for medical applications.

vi. Infrastructure projects could be modified to DBOT from BOT to emphasize more on initial

design so as to enhance usage of latest material and technology relating to geotextiles.

vii. Various Ministries could make amendments in certain existing Policies/Acts/Guidelines to

directly/indirectly boost the growth of Technical Textiles in India. Some suggestions are listed

below:

Ministry of Roads & Highways and Ministry of Rural Development can consider issuing

guidelines to increase the usage of geosynthetics in construction of roads where sub soil CBR

is less than 3 so as to prevent air/land/water pollution due to road accidents and provide

safety to people.

Ministry of Environment could issue guidelines to increase the usage of geotextiles in landfill

projects so as to prevent environmental pollution. Also, geosynthetics are useful in times of

527

growing land scarcity, increasing awareness of seismic hazards and stringent environmental

regulations.

Ministry of Surface Transport and Ministry of Railways could encourage the usage of fire

retardant textiles in all public transports.

Ministry of Urban Development could encourage the usage of fire retardant textiles in all new

constructions through fire safety guidelines for safety of masses in view of increasing

incidents of loss of lives and properties due to fire.

Ministry of Transport could issue guidelines to encourage use of airbags in all new vehicles

manufactured.

Ministry of Health & Family Welfare could issue the guidelines to increase the usage of

nonwoven single use products in hospitals as these products have qualities like anti-viral,

bacteriostatic, fungistatic, non-toxic, high absorbent, non-allergic, breathable, biocompatible

and haemostatic.

Thrust on Technical Textile Parks under SITP

7.4.35. For boosting the domestic production and thereby exports of Technical Textile products, it is

recommended that specific Technical Textile parks/ clusters are developed in the country.

Under the Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP), at least 10% of textile parks should be

dedicated technical textile parks.

Implementation of Technology Mission on Technical Textiles

7.4.36. The Ministry announced the launch of Technology Mission on Technical Textiles in the XI Five Year

Plan, with a view to identify and address major constraints affecting the production and

consumption of Technical Textiles. This mission was further segregated into four mini missions

depending upon their end objective and a sum of money was proposed for fulfillment of these mini

missions, details of which are as follows:

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Exhibit 7.4.2:

Mini Mission Objective Fund requirement

Mini Mission - I Capacity building of raw material, machinery, infrastructure and manufacturing units of technical textiles.

Rs 2 billion

Mini Mission - II Standardisation, product development and common testing facilities with international accreditation.

Rs 3 billion

Mini Mission - III Domestic and export market development of technical textiles

Rs 1 billion

Mini Mission - IV Human resource development for technical textiles. Rs 0.8 billion

7.4.37. However, since the time the mission was announced (2007), no progress has been made in the

implementation of the mission, due to inadequate availability of finance from the Planning

Commission for this purpose.

This mission should be initiated at the earliest as it will boost domestic production as well as

consumption of Technical Textiles in the country.

Creation of world-class testing facilities

7.4.38. In order to meet the stringent and critical performance related requirements of Technical Textile

products in the international markets, it is recommended that world class testing facilities should be

set-up in India. These facilities will assist in accurately evaluating the products to meet international

requirements.

Measures to ensure availability of skilled manpower

7.4.39. Manufacture of speciality fibres requires high level of technology for which highly skilled labourers are

required. In order, to ensure a steady supply of skilled and trained manpower to the fibre industry, it is

recommended that the government sets up centres of excellence in partnership with technical

institutes and industries in different regions to impart training.

7.4.40. Technical textiles need to be included in the syllabus and curriculum of educational

institutions at B.Tech/B.E. and higher levels in all related branches of engineering and

technology, architecture and medicine to ensure availability of skilled manpower over the

long-term.

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7.A. ANNEXURE

7.A.1. BRIEF SNAPSHOT OF VARIOUS SEGMENTS OF TECHNICAL

TEXTILES

7.A.1. Agrotech: This segment comprises of all Technical Textiles products which find usage in agriculture,

horticulture, fisheries and forestry. Some of the products in Agrotech include fishing nets, crop-covers,

shade-nets, mulch-mats, among others. The market size of this segment in India has grown at a

CAGR of 11.3% from Rs 2.6 billion in FY02 to Rs 5.5 billion in FY08. In India, National Horticulture

Mission (NHM) has been promoting the usage of Agrotech products through subsidies and annual

plans for states. The demand for products under this segment is directly linked to the performance of

the agriculture sector and level of awareness and acceptance by farmers. Major fibres used in the

manufacture of Agrotech products include cotton, jute, nylon, polypropylene, HDPE and

LDPE/LLDPE.

7.A.2. Buildtech: Products in this segment comprise of composite or textiles materials which find usage in

construction of permanent/temporary buildings and structures. Products in Buildtech include

hoardings and signages, tarpaulins, awnings and canopies, floor and wall coverings, architectural

membranes among others. This segment is estimated to provide employment to around 63,000

people, of which number of technical people stands at 33,000. The market size of this segment has

grown steadily from Rs 10.5 billion in FY02 to Rs 21.6 billion in FY08 registering a CAGR of 10.8%.

Textile material used in this segment have grown popular over the years due to characteristics like

lightness, strength, resilience and resistance to factors like creep, defamation and degradation due to

chemicals/pollutants in the air, rain and exposure to sunlight and acid.Some of the fibres used in

manufacture of Buildtech include cotton, polyester, nylon and HDPE. Mafatlal Industries Ltd, Binny

Ltd, Birla Corporation Ltd, SRF Ltd are some of the leading manufacturers of Buildtech products in

India.

7.A.3. Clothtech: This segment of Technical Textiles comprise of textile components used in manufacture of

garments. Products in this segment comprise of shoe laces, labels, interlinings, sewing threads,

among others. This segment has grown at a CAGR of 3.6% from Rs 54 billion in FY02 to Rs 69.1

billion in FY08. Cheap imports from China and other South Asian countries is one of the major factor

affecting the growth of this segment in India. Key fibres used in the manufacture of products under

this segment include cotton, viscose, polyester and nylon. Bombay Dyeing & Manufacturing Company

Ltd, Shri Lakshmi Cotysn Ltd, Sky Industries Ltd, among others are some of the leading

manufacturers of Clothtech products in India.

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7.A.4. Geotech: This segment of Technical Textiles comprise of products which find usage in Geotechnical

applications related to soil, earth, rock, among others. The term “Geotextile” refers to fabric or

synthetic material which may be woven or nonwoven used with geotechnical engineering material.

Application areas of products under these segment include civil engineering, marine engineering and

environmental engineering. Market size of this segment in India has grown at a CAGR of 13.8% from

Rs 1.1 billion in FY02 to Rs 2.7 billion. Garware-Wall Ropes Ltd, Kusumgar Corporates, Rishi Packers

Ltd, Ashapura Volclay Ltd, Tech Fab India and Strata Geosystems India and Techfab India Industries

Limited are some of the leading manufacturers of Geotech products in India. Jute, polyester, nylon,

polypropylene and LDPE/LLDPE are some of the major fibres used in the manufacture of Geotech

products.

7.A.5. Hometech: Products in this segment comprise of textiles components used in household

applications. Some of the products in this segment are mattress and pillow components, stuff toys,

blinds, HVAC filters, mosquito nets, furniture fabrics, nonwoven wipes among others. Market size of

this segment has grown steadily from Rs 7.6 billion in FY02 to Rs 50.3 billion in FY08 registering a

CAGR of 31%. Cotton, viscose, polyester and polypropylene are some of the key fibre used in the

manufacture of products under this segment. Domestic manufacturing caters to most of the demand

while imports cater to a demand for products like blinds, nonwoven wipes and HVAC filters as the

fabric of desired quality is not available in India. Birla Corporation, Ginni Filaments, Hanung Toys &

Textiles Ltd, Shri Dinesh Mills Ltd are some of the leading manufacturers of Hometech products in

India.

7.A.6. Indutech: This segment of Technical Textiles comprise of products used in the manufacturing sector.

Some of the products in this segment include conveyor belts, drive belts, ropes & cordages, printed

circuit boards, paper making fabrics, filteration products, among others. Major fibres used in the

manufacture of Indutech products include cotton, viscose, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, HDPE,

aramid and glass. This segment has grown at a CAGR of 2.9% from Rs 26.2 billion in FY02 to Rs

32.1 billion in FY08. SRF Ltd, Garware-Wall Ropes Ltd, MRF Ltd, Nirlon Ltd, Goodyear India Ltd are

some of the leading manufacturers of Indutech products in India.

7.A.7. Meditech: Meditech products find usage in hygiene, health and personal care and surgical

applications. Based on the end-use many meditech products are disposable and made of nonwoven

fabrics. Recent advances in the medical field have permitted the use of textiles as extracorporeal

devices in the form of artificial kidney/liver, mechanical lungs among others. Some of the products of

this segment include baby diapers, sanitary napkins, contact lens, artificial implants, surgical sutures,

among others. The market size of this segment in India has steadily grown at a CAGR of 4.9% from

Rs 11.9 billion in FY02 to Rs 16.7 billion in FY08. Cotton, Polypropylene and polyester are the major

fibres used in the manufacture of Meditech products. Lately, synthetic fibres are increasingly replacing

natural fibres in manufacture of Meditech products. Eastman Industries Ltd, Gufic Biosciences Ltd,

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Procter & Gamble Hygeine & Health Care Ltd are some of the leading manufacturers of Meditech

products in India.

7.A.8. Mobiltech: This segment of Technical Textiles comprise of products finding application in automotive

and automotive components. Products under the components category can be segregated into two

sub-categories – visible components (seat upholstery, seat belts, etc) and concealed components

(tyre cords, liners, etc). Overall market size of this segment in India has grown at a CAGR of 13.9%

from Rs 12.8 billion in FY02 to Rs 31.8 billion in FY08. Cotton, viscose, polyester, Polypropylene and

nylon are the major fibres used in the manufacture of Mobiltech products. SRF LTD, Century Enka

Ltd, Faze Three Ltd, Fenoplast Ltd are some of the major producers of Mobiltech products in India.

7.A.9. Oekotech: Products of this segment find usage in environmental protection, waste disposal and

recyling. Landfill waste management is the major segment of Oekotech. This segment is expected to

grow in tandem with growth in expenditure on municipal waste disposal and increase in awareness

and government activity on Hazardous waste. The market size of this segment stood at Rs 680 million

in FY08. Major fibres used in the manufacture of products of this segment include jute, polyester,

nylon, polypropylene, HDPE and LDPE/LLDPE. Ashapura Group is the leading manufacturer of

Oekotech products in India.

7.A.10. Packtech: This segment comprises of all textile packing material used for industrial and agricultural

purposes. FIBCs, leno bags, polyolefin woven sacks, tea-bags, etc are some of the products under

this segment. Market size of this segment has grown steadily at a CAGR of 22.2% from Rs 35.9 billion

in FY02 to Rs 146.3 billion in FY08. Major fibres used in the manufacture of Packtech products

include jute, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, HDPE and LDPE/LLDPE. Some of the major companies

in this segment include Texplast Industries Limited, Jumbo Bags Limited and Alliance Jute Mills, Birla

Corporation, Auckland Jute Ltd., Champdany Industries Ltd., VIP Industries Ltd, Samsonite South

Asia Pvt Ltd, Aristocrat Luggage Ltd, among others.

7.A.11. Protech: Protech segment comprises of all textile materials/products used in the manufacture of

protective clothing (includes garments and accessories intended to protect people from hazardous

materials, processes or events encountered during their normal course of work or during leisure

activities). Products in this segment include bullet proof jackets, NBC suits, high altitude clothing and

fire retardant apparels. Defence is one of the leading consumers of Protech products in India. Market

size of this segment in India has grown steadily from Rs 3.5 billion in FY02 to Rs 13 billion in FY08

registering a CAGR of 20.8%. Polyester and nylon are major fibres used in the manufacture of

Protech products. Tata Advanced Materials Ltd, M K U Pvt Ltd, and Kusumgar Corporates are the key

manufacturers of Protech products in India.

7.A.12. Sporttech: This segment comprises of products which find usage in sports and leisure. Artificial turfs,

sail cloth, sleeping bags, sports nets, shoe components are some of the products of this segment.

Market size of this segment currently stands at Rs 28.5 billion. Fibres used in the manufacture of

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Sporttech products include cotton, polyester, nylon, polypropylene, HDPE and LDPE/LLDPE. Mayor &

Company, Cosco (India) Ltd., Premier Enterprises, Beat All Sports, Hans Raj Mahajan & Sons,

Kusumgar Corporates are some of the major manufacturers of Sporttech products in India.

7.A.2. EXISTING REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR TECHNICAL

TEXTILES

7.A.13. The government has played a vital role in promotion of usage of Technical Textile products in India.

The government has not only assisted in creation of demand for Technical Textiles products but has

also facilitated the supply of these products to the end user industries. The government, to promote

the growth of Technical Textiles products in India, announced various schemes/policies which are

discussed in detail as follows:

Excise duties: Technical Textiles products are mainly manufactured from MMFs. To boost

the indigenous production of Technical Textiles in the country, the government reduced the

excise duty charged on various MMFs to 8.24% from 16.32% in FY06. Also the government

corrected the anomaly in duty rates wherein duty on fibres was payable at 16.32% while duty

of 8.16% was levied on fabrics.

Customs duty: The manufacture of Technical Textile products involves the usage of latest

and hi-tech machinery which is currently not manufactured in India. The government,

recognizing this need, covered major machineries required in the manufacture of Technical

Textiles products under the concessional list of 5% basic customs duties.

TUFS: The textiles policy of 2000 included the introduction of Technology Upgradation Fund

Scheme (TUFS) wherein textile manufacturing units are given loans for expansion and

technological upgradation at subsidized rates. When TUFS was modified (on April 1, 2007) a

provision was made for specific technical textiles machinery to be procured at an additional

benefit in the form of 10% capital subsidy and a 5% interest reimbursement.

Centres of Excellence: The main rationale behind the creation of COE by the government

was the provision of support/infrastructure to the manufacturers of technical textiles at one

place. The government has earmarked Rs 110 million for each of the following 4 agencies

towards the setting up of COEs. While the capital expenditure shall be borne by the

government, recurring expenditure will borne by the COEs. The government has, so far,

disbursed an amount of Rs 31.8 million to each of the 4 agencies. Details of agencies and

segment covered are as follows:

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Exhibit 7.A.1:

Sr. no. Name of agency Segment

1 The Bombay Textile Research Association (BTRA) & Ahmedabad Textile Industry's Research Association (ATIRA)

Geotech

2 Synthetic & Art Silk Mills Research Association (SASMIRA) & Man-made Textile Research Association (MANTRA) & Navsari Agriculture University with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi

Agrotech

3 Northern India Textile Research Association (NITRA) & Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi

Protech

4 South India Textile Research Association (SITRA) and AC College of Technology

Meditech

Focus Products Scheme: The government announced this scheme to incentivize export of

Technical Textiles products having high employment potential and export intensity so as to

offset infrastructure inefficiencies and other costs associated with marketing of these

products. Under this scheme, exports of identified products, to all countries, would be entitled

for Duty Credit scrip equivalent to 2% of FOB value of exports.

Institutional mechanism: The government, in order to monitor, review and take measures to

promote Technical Textiles, has created institutional mechanisms in terms of Inter-Ministerial

Committee (IMC) and Steering Committee for Growth and Development of Technical Textiles.

De-reservation: The government have de-reserved some products which were initially

reserved from the SSI sector which hampered the entry of large players in these segments.

For instance, the government removed reservations sanitary napkins/baby diapers which

were initially reserved for SSI sector.

Technology Mission on Technical Textiles: The government, in 2007, announced the

launch of Technology Mission on Technical Textiles in XIth Five Year Plan with the aim of

identification of constraints and improving production and consumption of Technical Textiles

in India. The mission was divided into four mini missions, the details of which are as follows:

534

Exhibit 7.A.2:

Mini Mission

Objectives Fund requirements

I Capacity building of raw material, machinery, infrastructure and manufacturing units of technical textiles.

Rs 2 billion

II Standardisation, product development and common testing facilities with international accreditation.

Rs 3 billion

III Domestic and export market development of technical textiles Rs 1 billion

IV Human resource development for technical textiles. Rs 0.8 billion

However, the mission has yet not been initialised by the government as yet.

7.A.2. OVERVIEW OF FIBRES USED IN TECHNICAL TEXTILES

7.A.14. Cotton: This fibre is one of the key raw materials for India‟s textiles industry. India is one of the

world‟s largest producers of cotton and is widely used in the manufacture of Indian Technical Textiles.

Cotton is majorly used in the manufacture of Clothtech, Hometech, Packtech and Meditech products.

Exhibit 7.A.3: Segmental fibre usage – Cotton

Agrotech11.8

Buildtech1.4

Clothtech29.7

Hometech16.1

Indutech3.3

Meditech12.0

Mobiltech0.5

Packtech16.4

Protech1.0

Sporttech7.8

Source: DRA

7.A.15. Wool: This fibre is widely used in the manufacture of Protech products due to its inherent

characteristic of being fire retardant. Wool also finds application in manufacture of Meditech,

Hometech and Indutech products.

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Exhibit 7.A.4: Segmental fibre usage – Wool

Hometech31.3

Indutech6.3Meditech

43.8

Protech18.8

Source: DRA

7.A.16. Jute: India is one of the largest producers of raw jute. This fibre is mainly used in the manufacture of

packaging sacks. Jute fabrics are widely used in the manufacture of Buildtech, Sporttech and

Agrotech.

Exhibit 7.A.5: Segmental fibre usage – Jute and \others

Agrotech3.2

Buildtech1.4

Clothtech0.2

Hometech0.2

Mobiltech0.4

Packtech94.4

Sporttech0.2

Source: DRA

7.A.17. Polyester: Polyester has a variety of applications but around 40-50% of the fibre produced is used in

the manufacture of Technical Textile products. Shrinkage resistance, wrinkle resistance, mildew and

abrasion resistance are some of the features of this fibre which makes it a popular fibre in the

manufacture of Technical Textiles. Polyester is majorly used in the manufacture of Clothtech

products.

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Exhibit 7.A.6: Segmental fibre usage – Polyester

Agrotech4.5

Buildtech3.2

Clothtech49.6

Geotech0.9

Hometech14.4

Indutech5.7

Meditech4.1

Mobiltech5.5

Packtech0.8

Protech2.7

Sporttech8.5

Source: DRA

7.A.18. Polypropylene: This fibre finds wide usage in the manufacture of Technical Textiles due to its special

properties. The domestic demand for this fibre is majorly met through domestic production though a

small quantity is also imported. Polypropylene is widely used in the manufacture of Packtech and

Agrotech products.

Exhibit 7.A.7: Segmental fibre usage – Polypropylene

Agrotech26.2

Buildtech1.5

Clothtech1.4

Geotech0.5Hometech

3.6Indutech1.1

Meditech15.6

Mobiltech2.6

Packtech45.7

Protech0.3

Sporttech1.4

Source: DRA

7.A.19. Polyethylene: These fibres majorly find application in the manufacture of Agrotech and Buildtech

products. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)/Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) tapes find usage in

the manufacture of variety of Technical Textiles products. HDPE is consumed in significant quantities

by the packaging industry.

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Exhibit 7.A.8: Segmental fibre usage – Polyethylene

Agrotech64.4

Buildtech20.1

Indutech1.2

Mobiltech3.5

Packtech5.5 Protech

2.6 Sporttech2.6

Source: DRA

7.A.20. Polyamide: Nylon (Polyamide) is used in a wide variety of Technical Textiles products and are

majorly used in the manufacture of Clothtech, Agrotech and Mobiltech products.

Exhibit 7.A.9: Segmental fibre usage – Polyamide

Agrotech29.7

Buildtech3.5

Clothtech26.7

Hometech4.4

Indutech9.1

Meditech0.8

Mobiltech15.4

Packtech0.2

Protech1.4

Sporttech8.9

Source: DRA

7.A.21. Viscose: This fibre is widely used in the manufacture of Technical Textiles. It is a key raw material for

manufacture of Clothtech products. Viscose, because of its high absorbent properties, is used in the

manufacture of Hometech products especially wipes. Viscose High Tenacity Filament Yarn, a special

variety of Viscose, finds usage in manufacturing of Mobiltech products.

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Exhibit 7.A.10: Segmental fibre usage – Viscose

Clothtech25.8

Hometech12.2

Indutech18.1

Meditech43.0

Mobiltech0.2

Protech0.2Sporttech

0.5

Source: DRA

7.A.22. Acrylic: Acrylic fibre are widely used in the manufacture of blinds and stuff toys (Hometech) and

Buildtech products.

Exhibit 7.A.11: Segmental fibre usage – Acrylic

Buildtech79.2

Indutech4.2

Mobiltech4.2

Protech4.2

Sporttech8.3

Source: DRA

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7.A.3. FOCUS SPECIALITY FIBRES

Exhibit 7.A.12: Focus Speciality Fibres: Brief Snapshot

Sr No Name of the Fibre

Properties Applications Import value

(Rs mn)

CAGR (FY07-FY09)

Major import

sources

1 Meta Aramids Meta-aramid fibres are the heat resistant synthetic fibre, having high strength

Flame resistance clothing, helmets, protective vests, bullet proof jackets, body armor, ropes and cables, sporting goods, ballistic body armor, etc.

271.0 - EU, China, USA

2 Para Aramids It is known for its high strength to weight ratio, high modulus, and excellent chemical and thermal stability.

Defence and protective clothing like helmets, bullet proof vests, protective hand gloves, fire resistant equipments, etc. Recently it has also been used in manufacturing of tyres.

3 FR Modacrylic High resilience, easy to dye to bright shades, abrasion resistant, flame resistant, quick drying, resistant to acid and alkaline, shape retentive, etc.

Manufacturing of apparels such as children wear, wigs, simulated fur, trims and linings, and deep pile coats, blankets, curtains, carpets, etc. Recently this fibre has found its application in manufacturing of flame retardant clothing due to its high heat resistance properties.

741.9 -2.9% Japan, EU, Thailand, China, USA

4 Superabsorbant Fibre

Super-absorbent fibre absorbs moisture to several thousand times its original weight, undergoing significant expansion, and eventually becoming a gel

Diapers, adult incontinence products, feminine hygiene products,

5.1 High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

HDPE is a polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum. HDPE structure has a little branching, which helps it in giving stronger intermolecular force and high tensile strength.

Wood plastic composites and composite wood, manufacturing of tubes, chemical-resistant barrier

5.2 High Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE)

High impact strength compared to any other thermoplastic. HMPE is highly resistant to corrosive chemicals and has extremely low moisture absorption. It has very low degree of friction and is self-lubricating.

Medical application for manufacturing biometric implants for hip, knee and spine. It is also used in manufacturing of bullet proof vests and industrial applications such as manufacturing of PVC (vinyl) windows and doors.

540




(Rs mn)

CAGR (FY07-FY09)

Major import

sources

6 Carbon Fibre Carbon fibres are extremely thin fibres composed from carbon atoms bonded together in microscopic crystals. Carbon fibre has many different weave patterns and can be combined with plastic resin and can be moulded to form composite materials.

The inherent strength and light weight, carbon fibres are majorly used in racing cars, aero planes, wind energy equipments and infrastructure industry.

270.3

43.7%

China, USA, Japan, S Korea, EU, etc

7 Polyphenylene sulfide Fibres (PPS)

PPS polymer is formed by reaction of sodium sulfide with pdichlorobenzene. Polyphenylene sulfide is like a high-performance thermoplastic. PPS can be moulded, extruded, or machined to high tolerances.

PPS fibre is used in manufacturing heat resistance application, bag filter, dryer canvas, liquid filtration cloth, parts for electric products, etc, on the basis of its excellent heat and chemical resistance.

8 Glass Fibre Glass fibres are extremely thin fibres of glass which are used as a reinforcing agent for many polymer products. It is formed when thin strands of silica-based or other formulation glass is extruded into many fibres with small diameters suitable for textile processing. It also has good properties of thermal insulator.

Glass fibre is majorly used in thermal insulation, electrical insulation, reinforcement of various materials, tent poles, sound absorption, heat- and corrosion-resistant fabrics, high-strength fabrics, automobile bodies, surfboards, etc.

604.0 3.20% China, USA, EU, South Korea

9 Flame Retardant (FR) Viscose

FR Viscose is a flame retardant cellulose based fibre which gives high wearing comfort as well as optimum protection.

Protective garments like fire fighting clothing, defence clothing, automotive seat fabrics, construction, upholstery, fire resistant barriers and mattress.

1,639.3 32.6% USA, EU, Japan

10 Flame Retardant (FR) Polyester

Flame retardant agent is added during polymerization process Hence it is able to withstand very high temperature.

Indoor decoration, automobile upholstery, seat covers, curtains, carpet, tents with hemming-stitch and auxiliary materials, sleeping bags, special working clothes, flame resistance curtains, mattresses used in commercial complexes such as offices, shopping complexes, etc.

922.1 16.90%

South Korea, China, Indonesia, etc.

11 High Tenacity Nylon

It is a multi-filament polyamide yarns characterized by high tenacity and low shrinkage.

High tenacity nylon filament yarn is used for manufacturing ropes, twines, seat belt webbing, automobile airbags, watch and bag straps, etc.

1,526.9 -14.9%

China, Taiwan, Indonesia, EU, etc.

541




(Rs mn)

CAGR (FY07-FY09)

Major import

sources

12 High Tenacity Polyester

Strong, resistant to stretching and shrinking, resistant to most chemicals, quick drying, crisp or resilient when wet or dry, wrinkle resistant, mildew resistant, abrasion resistant.

High tenacity polyester filament yarns used for the manufacture of ropes, twines, seat belt webbing, geotextiles, etc.

1,457.3 5.3% China, Taiwan, Indonesia, EU, etc.

13 High Tenacity Polypropylene

High tenacity polypropylene is high strength fibre having greater stability

Ropes used in different industrial and construction activities.

12.8 -39.6%

USA, EU, S Korea, etc.

14 High Tenacity Viscose

Viscose fibre is made from lumber, bulrush, linter or cellolose through a chemical process. Viscose fibre consists of flament and short fibre. Flament is also called rayon or tenasco.

High tenacity viscose fibre in cord thread and ropes used in different industrial and construction applications.

64.3 55.9% China, EU, S Korea, etc

15 Ceramic Fibre It is manufactured from alumina silicate glass which has high heat resistance properties.

Manufacturing of domestic heating appliances, furnace, insulation for steam and gas turbines. Recently these fibres were observed to be used in aerospace industry due to its inherent strength and light weight.

60.2 83.20%

China, USA, EU.

16 Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

PTFE has an excellent dielectric property, it has a high melting point

It is used in manufacturing of electrical applications. Recently it has been used in manufacturing of home appliances

4.7 -39% USA, EU and Nepal

17 PBI Fibres PBI (Polybenzimidazole) stable fibre is an organic fibre that provides thermal stability. PBI fibre does not burn in air, it does not melt or drip, and it will retain its strength and flexibility after exposure to flame.

PBI finds applications in aerospace, bearings, bushings, electrical parts, general purpose high temperature applications, insulation, insulation shield, sealing devices, seals, semiconductor moulding compounds.

HS code not found in DGCIS

18 PBO Fibres PBO – Fibre Zylon is said to be the strongest fibre that is commercially available. The tensile strength of this fibre is higher than para-aramids like Kevlar and Twaron and high performance polyethylene (Dyneema and Spectra).

Manufacturing of protective clothing such as bullet proof vests, body armour, clothing used for fire fighting, ballistic jackets, etc.


19 Anti-microbial/Anti-fungal/Anti-bacterial Fibres

An anti-microbial and/or anti-fungal and/or anti-bacterial fibre comprises of various thermoplastic polymers and additives in a mono-component or bi-component form. The active

These fibres are majorly used in manufacturing of protective clothing for doctors, nurses, care staff, employees in food manufacturing and food processing, etc.


542




(Rs mn)

CAGR (FY07-FY09)

Major import

sources

agent, incorporated into the fibre, prevents and limits the growth of bacteria/ fungi/ microbes.

20 Phenolic Fibre These fibres are manufactured by using compression moulding followed by hand lay-up technique. It has tensile and flexural properties of coir based hybrid composites were investigated as a function of fibre content and fibre volume fraction.

Phenolic fibres are used in manufacturing of automotive and electrical components.


21 Conductive Fibre

These fibres have good properties of carrying electrical signal.

It is used in manufacturing of electromagnetic shielding


22 Fibre for concrete re-enforcement

These fibres can be generally polyester or polypropylene, which have high tensile strength and good heat resistance. Hence it is preferred in concrete re-enforcement.

These fibres are used in concrete re-enforcement, as it prevents premature cracks, prolongs life span, increase impact resistance, etc.


23 Alginate Fibre Calcium alginate fibres are manufactured from alginate extracted from seaweed. Calcium alginate is used worldwide in the production of wound dressings.

Medical bandages used for wound dressing, food processing industry, etc


Source: D&B India, CMIE

543

7.A.4. LIST OF MACHINERY ELIGIBLE FOR CAPITAL SUBSIDY

UNDER TUFS

Exhibit 7.A.13: LIST OF MACHINERY / EQUIPMENT ELIGIBLE FOR 10% CAPITAL SUBSIDY UNDER TUF SCHEME FOR TECHNICAL TEXTILES INCLUDING NONWOVEN

a. Spinning 1) Friction spinning

2) Doubling or twisting machine for industrial yarn

b. Weaving Preparatory 1) High speed computerized warping / sectional warping machine

2) Filament winding machine for textile position

c. Weaving 1) Heavy duty shuttleless weaving machine for production of technical textiles

2) Heavy duty tape weaving

3) Bi- axial & Multi-axial weaving machinery.

4) Multi-phase weaving machine.

5) 3-D and Block weaving machine.

6) Needle looms for narrow woven fabrics.

7) Circular looms

d. Knitting 1) Weft Inserted Warp Knitting machine (WIWK).

2) Knitting machine for spacer fabrics

3) Bi- axial & Multi axial knitting machine

4) Tricot machinery

5) Rachel double needle bar Machine

6) Rachel machine for netting

7) Net making machine by warp knotting system

8) Circular warp knitting machine for compression garments

9) Stitch bonding machine

544


e. Processing 1) Mechanical foamer with Crush calender.

2) Pultrusion machine and equipment.

3) Spattering machine and equipment.

4) FRP processing machine & equipment.

5) RTM (Reinforced Textile Material) machine and equipment.

6) Lab scale production /processing equipment for technical textile product development.

7) Calendering machine

8) Finishing machinery for impregnating yam or fabrics

9) Dipping machine for tyre cord / industrial fabrics / belting ducks

10) Dipping machine for single end or cord for reinforcement of v-belts / hoses / hosetires

11) Printing machine for coated / laminated fabric

12) Coagulated PU or PVC dip coating machine / PU or PVC coating line or coating dipping / knife machine with infrared dryer

f. Madeup Technical Textile (TT) Store

1) RF (Radio Frequency) welding equipment

2) Ultrasonic cutting and sealing equipment.

3) Laser cutting and sealing equipment.

4) Printing equipment for Signage.

5) Heat setting machine and stretching (for heat setting table).

6) Back Coating Lines

7) Braiding machinery

8) Machinery for manufacture of clay liner

9) Machinery for manufacture of prefabricated vertical drains / prefabricated wick drains

g. Nonwoven textile

manufacturing machines:

Complete production lines or the component / parts forming the production line for the manufacture of following nonwovens upto rolledgoods preparation and packing, viz.,

(a) Chemically bonded nonwoven

(b) Stitch bonded nonwoven

(c) Spun bonded nonwoven

(d) Melt blown nonwoven

(e) Spun bond melt blown nonwoven (SMS nonwovens)

(f) Needle punch nonwoven

(g) Thermal bond nonwoven

(h) Spun lace nonwoven

545


h. Finishing machines: 1.Hot melt cold glue applicators for coating

2.Ultrasonic slitting machines/edge sealer

3.Brazing machine with torch(for hot air)

4.PLC operated system with servo drives for measurement/control of tension and temperature

5.Film calendering machine

6.Automatic packing and inspection machines

7.Heatset oven with stenter facility

8.Pilot/lab coating line

9.High pressure pump for water jet cutting system

10.Robotic waterjet cutting system

11. Robot for water jet cutting system

12. Water softening/purification system for water jet cutting

13. Machines for powder scattering/paste dot/powder dot

14. Coating for fusible interlinings

15. Padding mangle (fulard)

16. Padding mangle (fulard)

17. Sheet extruders and lamination machine

18. Singeing machine

19. Clip/pin stenter for heat setting

20. Flame lamination machine

21. Dust collectors

22. Jacquard machines for joining two edges by inter weaving.

23. Turret winder and unwinder

24. High speed precision mixers for plastisols/ organosols.

25. Gunning and cutting machine.

26. Grommet fixing machine.

27. PU tumbling machine and drying machine.

28. DMF recovery plant and distillation plant.

29. Printing machine for coated textiles.

30. All types of coaters such as knife over roll, kiss roll coater, screen coater, etc.

31. coater, screen coater, etc.

546


i. Nonwoven converting machinery:

1. Complete thermomoulding lines

2. Complete thermosetting lines

3. Machinery of carpet/NVH moulding lines oven/ press

4. Conveyor/thermopack for heating/chiller forcooling

5. Machinery for moulded roofliners

6. Machinery for conversion of nonwovens into face masks / dust masks / duck bill masks / earloop mask sealing / tieon mask sealing / blank mask making machine

7. Machinery for conversion of nonwovens into bouffont caps / surgical caps / medicap making machine

8. Machinery for conversion of nonwovens into gowns / pillowslip / shoe covers / ice pack body / ice pack band sealing and cutting / hand bags / filter pocket /head rest cover / CD / DVD cover and other such items

9. Machinery for conversion of nonwovens into sanitary napkins / baby diapers / adult diapers

10. Machinery for conversion of nonwovens into dry and wet wipes

11. Machinery for slitting and rewinding of nonwoven roll

12. Surgical gauze machine making

13. Combined dressing making machine

14. Bandage Roll making machine

15. Machine to compress

16. Abdominal sponge making machine

17. Automatic packing machines

Note: The above machinery is only eligible for nonwovens and convertors of nonwovensinto finished products.

547


j. Testing and Evaluation

machinery :

1. Speciality testing equipments and rigs for T.T.

(Technical Textiles) and T.T.P. (Technical Textile

Products)

2. Universal textile testing machine 10 tonnes/20 tonnes

3. Index puncture resistance tester

4. Co-efficient of friction apparatus

5. Particle size determination apparatus

6. Gradient ratio test apparatus

7. Long time flow apparatus

8. Feltperm

9. Point paper design system with EWE

10. Weatherometer

11. Yam shrinkage and shrinkage force testing machine

12. Viscometers

13. Data loggers for machine monitoring and flex resistance tester

14. Tear testing machine

15. Cold crack resistance testing

16. Thickness gauge

17. Water repellency testing machine

18. Waterproofing testing machine

19. Fire resistance testing equipments

20. Accelerated ageing testing oven

21. Rainwater tests equipment continuous water spray test and I.R. spectrometer etc.

22. Abrasion testers

23. Colour matching cabinets

24. Colour fastness testers

25. Accelerated creep tester

26. Air permeability tester

27. Hydro static puncture test for geo membrane

28. Hydraulic grip

29. Projection microscope

548


k. Any other machine considered appropriate by the Technical Advisory-cum-Monitoring Committee (TAMC).

Note: Since some of the machinery eligible for technical textiles can also be used by the other segments of the industry, the technical textile entrepreneurs intending to avail of 10% capital subsidy under TUFS will have to get themselves registered with Office of the Textile Commissioner and obtain a registration number. In other words, the registration with Office of the Textile Commissioner will be the pre-requisite for availing of 10% capital subsidy by technical textile units.

7.A.5. COMPOSITION OF THE SUB-GROUP ON SPECIALITY FIBRE

(TECHNICAL TEXTILES) TO FORMULATE NATIONAL FIBRE

POLICY

S. No Name Designation

1. Smt. Monika S. Garg, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textiles Convenor

2. Shri Shishir Jaipuria, Chairman, CITI Co-convenor

3. Shri Manohar Samuel, Sr. vice President, Grasim Co-convenor

4. Shri Sushil Kapur, President & CEO, SRF Ltd/Representative CII Co-convenor

5. Smt Neelkamal Darbari, JS, M/o Petrochemicals Member

6. Shri M.S. Verma, Vice President (Tech), Reliance Member

7. Shri Rahul Dharmadhikari, MD, Ahlstrom Fibercomosites Member

8. Dr. M.K. Talukdar, Vice President, Kusumgar Corporates Member

9. Smt Roli Jindal, Du Pont Member

10. Shri Chetan Bijesure, Team Leader, FICCI Member

11. Prof V.K. Kothari, IIT Member

12. Shri J.V. Rao, Director, NITRA Member

549

Documents

SECTION VII: SPECIALITY FIBRE - West · 2018-03-07 · III. The sub-group on speciality fibres for the National Fibre Policy has focused only on the 30% of these fibres, namely -